First time Mercedes-benz owner. Any suggestions on maintenance


I would suggest the following:
- Oil/filter change
- Transmission oil/filter change
- Differential oil change (Front and Rear) - was not clear if it was AWD or RWD
- Spark Plugs
- PCV
- Air Filter
- Cabin filter
- Check brakes and rotors when you get the vehicle and change accordingly.
- Check serpentine belt, would recommend replacing along with pulleys and tensioner, especially if squealing.




I would suggest the following:
- Oil/filter change
- Transmission oil/filter change
- Differential oil change (Front and Rear) - was not clear if it was AWD or RWD
- Spark Plugs
- PCV
- Air Filter
- Cabin filter
- Check brakes and rotors when you get the vehicle and change accordingly.
- Check serpentine belt, would recommend replacing along with pulleys and tensioner, especially if squealing.
1 - with your VIN number check if the M276 engine falls into the category that requires chain tensioner replacements, and/or check valve for the camshaft adjusters. M276 engines made in 2012 are usually in the range, but good to check; otherwise, you may end up requiring earlier camshaft adjusters. If you hear some rattling at start-up, the issue already started, and it should be dealt with promptly.
2 - Check the camshaft magnets and camshaft sensors for oil seeping into the harness. It is not a visible leak, and you must disconnect the harness and visually verify there is NO oil whatsoever in the connector. Oil from here can make it to the ECU, and the car will start with misfires and other ignition gremlins.
3 - Check the drainage points at both A-pillars to be certain they are not clogged; otherwise, water may enter the vehicle (if it has not already entered)
4 - Check for any signs of water/humidity under the carpets at the front (driver and passenger sides)
Until all the above recommendations are completed (all 4 apply to any MB with an M276 engine), I would not spend a penny on cosmetics for the car since if something of the above goes wrong you are going to need plenty of $$$$. ECU replacement due to oil harness in @2k+ , Camshaft adjusters @800+x4 (if all damaged) for starters. Once the car is clear of known issues, go ahead with the extras.


