Bobby_singh

Hi Guys,

I'm looking to buy a C32 for my next car could someone please point me in the direction of a buying guide or better still any tips would be great.

I'm based in the UK so will be buying a UK spec car if that makes any difference.

Many thanks
Bobby
UK

gkstar

Hi Bobby. Here are a couple of pointers:

https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...ht=biff+powell - Check post #5 by Bif Powell

http://www.c32life.com/ - browse through this site as it has useful information and many reviews. Some of the reviews are from British mags and may point to UK model specifics.

Good luck with your search, it is a great car...

Bobby Dazzler

I've been trying to get together the biggest gathering of C32 and SLK32s and we see the same issues in the UK as our US bretherin. Some are not unique to the C32, but still suffer with them none-the-less.

Take a look at the links provided above, and use the search to find out more about some of the issues mentioned.

Common problems I and other UK owners have encountered are:

• Intercooler pump failure (search intercooler + pump)
• Air injection relay (recall);
• Air injection pump (recall);
• Head rest switch failure;
• Head rest motor failure;
• Heated seat cover (with integrated heating element) failure;
• Various suspension and control arm bush failure;
• Anti-roll bar bushes (squeaking in dry weather, knock on rough surfaces) failure.

Less common, but known issues:

• Valeo radiator glycol contamination (search valeo + glycol)
• Modification to ‘noisy’ purge valve bracket;
• Bi-xenon headlamp ignitor pack, control unit, capsule (bulb), assembly (intermitent failure and on-screen error messages);
• Replaced windscreen washer pump;
• Steering rack excessive play;
• Steering column universal joint excessive play.

All should be covered by MBUK Warranty if bought from a dealer. Worth considering if you buy elsewhere - budget £650 per year, or get Service Plus to to get servicing and wear & tear items included for about £70 per month.

Good luck with your purchase.