Want a C32 (maybe), advice?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: Plano, TX
2002 C32 ///AMG
Want a C32 (maybe), advice?
Ok, I really wanted a C32 before browsing forums, but after browsing them, it seems like they're really problematic? Maybe it's because everyone complains about them instead of praises them on the forums.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 258
Likes: 0
From: Des Plaines, IL
C32 AMG
Ok, I really wanted a C32 before browsing forums, but after browsing them, it seems like they're really problematic? Maybe it's because everyone complains about them instead of praises them on the forums.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
I bought mine a year ago, not even knowing of this forum or any other. I wish I did. IMO this is still the best vehicle I ever bought. If you noticed on this forum you will practically find answer to any possible problem w/ any MB.
C32 is like every high perf vehicle on the market, built to last and take punishment from leadfoot drivers like myself. And belive me there is no better feeling than driving C32 on the open hwy. If it would have wings it would fly.
Just imagine yourself in a car that is one of a kind.
Problems - just minor set back for that extra power.
Take advantage of what you read on the forum, find a car, do the research on it, take it for test drive for a day or two, Fall in love with it and pull the trigger. What you will get is comfort, great performance, and bust of ego.
I use my car every single day, rain, snow does not matter, wouldn't trade it for anything. In a year of abuse all i fixed was: I/C pump, Light sensor (some kind of recall- free from MB), and couple sets of tires
.As far as getting warranty from MB if you purches veh from different Stealer, they wil tell you to go to hell- tried that didn't work. MB offers extended warranty only if the car was sold by MB dealer new or used (third party sales void that privilage). Behind every horror story there are 3 happy ones never told ( not enough space on the web to cover it
). Mint condition should not be more than 23-25k for 2002.
Hope that helps.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,761
Likes: 4
From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
Here's one for sale : https://mbworld.org/forums/classifieds/181099-2002-c32-amg-45k-miles-d-c-metro-area.html
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: Plano, TX
2002 C32 ///AMG
Welcome.
I bought mine a year ago, not even knowing of this forum or any other. I wish I did. IMO this is still the best vehicle I ever bought. If you noticed on this forum you will practically find answer to any possible problem w/ any MB.
C32 is like every high perf vehicle on the market, built to last and take punishment from leadfoot drivers like myself. And belive me there is no better feeling than driving C32 on the open hwy. If it would have wings it would fly.
Just imagine yourself in a car that is one of a kind.
Problems - just minor set back for that extra power.
Take advantage of what you read on the forum, find a car, do the research on it, take it for test drive for a day or two, Fall in love with it and pull the trigger. What you will get is comfort, great performance, and bust of ego.
I use my car every single day, rain, snow does not matter, wouldn't trade it for anything. In a year of abuse all i fixed was: I/C pump, Light sensor (some kind of recall- free from MB), and couple sets of tires .
As far as getting warranty from MB if you purches veh from different Stealer, they wil tell you to go to hell- tried that didn't work. MB offers extended warranty only if the car was sold by MB dealer new or used (third party sales void that privilage). Behind every horror story there are 3 happy ones never told ( not enough space on the web to cover it ). Mint condition should not be more than 23-25k for 2002.
Hope that helps.
I bought mine a year ago, not even knowing of this forum or any other. I wish I did. IMO this is still the best vehicle I ever bought. If you noticed on this forum you will practically find answer to any possible problem w/ any MB.
C32 is like every high perf vehicle on the market, built to last and take punishment from leadfoot drivers like myself. And belive me there is no better feeling than driving C32 on the open hwy. If it would have wings it would fly.
Just imagine yourself in a car that is one of a kind.
Problems - just minor set back for that extra power.
Take advantage of what you read on the forum, find a car, do the research on it, take it for test drive for a day or two, Fall in love with it and pull the trigger. What you will get is comfort, great performance, and bust of ego.
I use my car every single day, rain, snow does not matter, wouldn't trade it for anything. In a year of abuse all i fixed was: I/C pump, Light sensor (some kind of recall- free from MB), and couple sets of tires
.As far as getting warranty from MB if you purches veh from different Stealer, they wil tell you to go to hell- tried that didn't work. MB offers extended warranty only if the car was sold by MB dealer new or used (third party sales void that privilage). Behind every horror story there are 3 happy ones never told ( not enough space on the web to cover it
). Mint condition should not be more than 23-25k for 2002. Hope that helps.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 1,513
Likes: 0
C32 AMG
Second, warranty companies have a huge staff whose job is to minimize their pay-outs, so you will not get the friendly, open-wallet attitude that dealers give you with manufacturer warranties.
Third, warranty companies go bust. They you have nothing but an unsecured claim against a brain-dead company.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 258
Likes: 0
From: Des Plaines, IL
C32 AMG
You can take it to MB for repairs, they do honor other ext warranty programs, it just not from them. B4 buying warranty you may want to check w/ local MB if they have agreement. Search treds in forum for warranty info, there were numerous posts about the topic. Personally I do not let anybody touch my car unless it is MB tech or somebody who worked on European cars.
Most of the fixes are DIY. Saves time.
Most of the fixes are DIY. Saves time.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: Plano, TX
2002 C32 ///AMG
You can take it to MB for repairs, they do honor other ext warranty programs, it just not from them. B4 buying warranty you may want to check w/ local MB if they have agreement. Search treds in forum for warranty info, there were numerous posts about the topic. Personally I do not let anybody touch my car unless it is MB tech or somebody who worked on European cars.
Most of the fixes are DIY. Saves time.
Most of the fixes are DIY. Saves time.
Trending Topics
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 6,213
Likes: 8
LET C32 2002
You know I read thru this forum prior to making my descision to buy mine and I mostly got from the negative threads that I would need to buy one with extended warranty which I did................I DON'T REGRET BUYING THIS C32..................extended warranty practically made my car new in some sence. I still would buy a used C32 again. Ever since I got into Mercedes AMG now all I want are power toys and the replacement for this car eventually is a used Lexus IS500,CLS55 OR E55. The biggest issue I really have with the car that technology wise its outdated thats all but like some people have already done you can change things and make it more dated. Not all have issues with the C32 and mostly everything fixed was outside the engine compartment give or take like three items.....
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 258
Likes: 0
From: Des Plaines, IL
C32 AMG
I didn't bother w/ warranty at all. Researched my options for that on my own and decided it is not worth for me. ( I'm 1/2 owner of Truck Repair shop - all I need is parts and labor is only $20/hr if I use my mechanic, free when I feel I want to entertain myself on weekends).
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: Plano, TX
2002 C32 ///AMG
You know I read thru this forum prior to making my descision to buy mine and I mostly got from the negative threads that I would need to buy one with extended warranty which I did................I DON'T REGRET BUYING THIS C32..................extended warranty practically made my car new in some sence. I still would buy a used C32 again. Ever since I got into Mercedes AMG now all I want are power toys and the replacement for this car eventually is a used Lexus IS500,CLS55 OR E55. The biggest issue I really have with the car that technology wise its outdated thats all but like some people have already done you can change things and make it more dated. Not all have issues with the C32 and mostly everything fixed was outside the engine compartment give or take like three items.....
Almost a Member!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
From: .
C
I agree with the points already made. If you look at any car forums dedicated to one brand or model, mostly they are talking about problems. I own a small motor repair shop in the UK, and to be honest Mercedes are not particularly unreliable compared to other German makes. Take a test drive and I am sure you won't be dissapointed!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,070
Likes: 1
From: D.C. METRO AREA
Nissan GT-R cobb/midpipe/ic piping/wastegate actuators/tials
Here's one for sale : https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=181099
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 259
Likes: 0
From: Ottawa, Ontario
C32 AMG - in Pewter
If you want to get excited again, go to youTube, streetFire or c32life.com. Before I got the car, I watched (and listened to) these 0 - 240km/h or 300mk/h runs and that was a joy. Imagine being in the car... way better...
Buying a used c32 in top shape with extended warranty will give this same new car feel at lower price. If you cannot get ext. warranty, budget some for maintenance and stick around this forum (do that in either case
...
Buying a used c32 in top shape with extended warranty will give this same new car feel at lower price. If you cannot get ext. warranty, budget some for maintenance and stick around this forum (do that in either case
...
Member
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 169
Likes: 0
everything and anything
I bought mine new and to this date haven't had any problems with it. Also keep in mind I'm the type of person who takes cares of his toys. A while ago I thought it was time to go shopping for a new toy and test drove audis, bmw as well as amg's. As other people have pointed out Mercedes does make a fine product, but keep in mind allot of posts here are probably owner induced.
Just take the time to find out one you like...When you do.....it will definately bring a smile to your face
Just take the time to find out one you like...When you do.....it will definately bring a smile to your face
Almost a Member!
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
From: Maryville, IL
2002 Mercedes C32 AMG Green Air Filters ASP Pulley Renntech ECU NGK Iridium Plugs BHP XPS Ceramic Br
WATCH that extended Warranty
http://www.autowarrantybroker.com/pr...er_details.asp is no longer offering the "silver" or any extended warranty for the C32 AMG's as of Feb. 1. If you buy it and try and make a claim they will reemburse you for the $$ you purchased it for, buy deny the claim. I think the sales reps are still selling them to make a commission, but the company will not honor the warrany. Recheck the website guys. If you check the website you will receive this message.
RRxGrasshopper
Sorry, we are unable to offer you a quote on that vehicle at this time.
We are adding new programs all of the time, so please try back again later. Thank you for using Auto Warranty Broker.
If you would like to request a different quote, click here. Thank you for using AutoWarrantyBroker.com.
RRxGrasshopper
Sorry, we are unable to offer you a quote on that vehicle at this time.
We are adding new programs all of the time, so please try back again later. Thank you for using Auto Warranty Broker.
If you would like to request a different quote, click here. Thank you for using AutoWarrantyBroker.com.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
From: Southern California
C32 AMG (for sale), '07 BMW Z4 M Roadster, 745i
https://mbworld.org/forums/classifieds/175152-sale-2002-c32-amg-super-clean.html
There's mine for sale if interested. No problems, $20k ONLY.
Thanks.
There's mine for sale if interested. No problems, $20k ONLY.
Thanks.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,717
Likes: 0
From: Keesler AFB, Gulfport, MS
C32 AMG
http://www.autowarrantybroker.com/pr...er_details.asp is no longer offering the "silver" or any extended warranty for the C32 AMG's as of Feb. 1. If you buy it and try and make a claim they will reemburse you for the $$ you purchased it for, buy deny the claim. I think the sales reps are still selling them to make a commission, but the company will not honor the warrany. Recheck the website guys. If you check the website you will receive this message.
RRxGrasshopper
Sorry, we are unable to offer you a quote on that vehicle at this time.
We are adding new programs all of the time, so please try back again later. Thank you for using Auto Warranty Broker.
If you would like to request a different quote, click here. Thank you for using AutoWarrantyBroker.com.
RRxGrasshopper
Sorry, we are unable to offer you a quote on that vehicle at this time.
We are adding new programs all of the time, so please try back again later. Thank you for using Auto Warranty Broker.
If you would like to request a different quote, click here. Thank you for using AutoWarrantyBroker.com.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 473
Likes: 0
From: San Francisco Bay Area
'03 C32
TJ, here's another owner with a great experience. Bought my '03 C32 used from a dealer. Had it for over 18 months now with only problem so far being a defective seat heater (replaced under CPO warranty).
Car has really unique personality and ride. Stealth power. Very happy with my purchase.
Car has really unique personality and ride. Stealth power. Very happy with my purchase.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,342
Likes: 11
From: PA
S600, GL450, GLC 43
Ok, I really wanted a C32 before browsing forums, but after browsing them, it seems like they're really problematic? Maybe it's because everyone complains about them instead of praises them on the forums.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
Is there good things about it too?
Anyone got a C32 that hasn't broken much?
Also, how does the extended warranty work?
Does the private dealership just get the warranty for you from MB directly, or can you just go to MB and ask for a warranty anytime?
How much should a 2002 with about 35k miles on it cost (assuming great condition), and how much would an extended warranty run me, and what kind or problems should I look out for right off the bat?
Sorry for all the questions, just wanted one real bad (until reading all the horror stories, now I'm second guessing).
Thanks.
As far as reliablility, I have only owned it for less than a year now. However I did do a search through Mercedes to see if anything ever broke, and guess what, IT HASN"T!!!
I can only say the I LOVE THIS CAR!!! Like everyone else I would like more power, but I could not afford a E55, or S55.
Did I mention that I have ALWAYS had a blown car in my garage, he, he
I use to race a 91 Mustang with a whipple charger. Sure it was faster than the C32, but I don't miss her at all
Buy one and you will Love it!!!
MRAMG1
Junior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 56
Likes: 0
From: SF Bay Area
C32 AMG Maserati Coupe GT
Only the parts that related to the inter-cooler are unique to the C32 (I/C pump comes to mind), the rest of the problems are common and found on all other W203 C class cars as well, and do happen less frequently.
I had mine C32 new since 2002, and I/C pump is my only major problem so far, and it was quickly fixed by the dealer (out of warranty by then). And the car is running fine as the day I bought it, you won't even know it is over 4 years old. I have 35K on the clock and I am keeping mine.
At 35K miles, I had just changed the brake pads and rotors. The driver's door weather strip was worn and replaced. A/C footwell step motor linkage was broken (very common on all C-class), but I haven't fix it yet. The other thing to check is the front control arm bushings and engine mount bushings for leaks, these are more like wear and tear items.
I had mine C32 new since 2002, and I/C pump is my only major problem so far, and it was quickly fixed by the dealer (out of warranty by then). And the car is running fine as the day I bought it, you won't even know it is over 4 years old. I have 35K on the clock and I am keeping mine.
At 35K miles, I had just changed the brake pads and rotors. The driver's door weather strip was worn and replaced. A/C footwell step motor linkage was broken (very common on all C-class), but I haven't fix it yet. The other thing to check is the front control arm bushings and engine mount bushings for leaks, these are more like wear and tear items.
Last edited by dchao; Feb 10, 2007 at 05:49 AM.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
From: Plano, TX
2002 C32 ///AMG
Ok guys, I drove the car, a black 2002 C32 with 33,000 miles on it, seemed like it was in perfect shape. Only problem is it had repair work done on the front right fender and back right fender, but I couldn't tell when looking at it (it was just on the carfax report) It is $22,888, is this a good deal or what? I think I'm going to have mercedes benz do an inspection on the car first, but it seems like this is a low mileage car, that is in great shape. Any other advice before I take the plunge?
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 542
Likes: 1
Ok guys, I drove the car, a black 2002 C32 with 33,000 miles on it, seemed like it was in perfect shape. Only problem is it had repair work done on the front right fender and back right fender, but I couldn't tell when looking at it (it was just on the carfax report) It is $22,888, is this a good deal or what? I think I'm going to have mercedes benz do an inspection on the car first, but it seems like this is a low mileage car, that is in great shape. Any other advice before I take the plunge?
Once a car has had body work, I would steer clear. From personal experience, I can assure you that no matter how good the body shop is, once a car has been hit it is never the same. It will rust faster depending on climate and may have electrical or other hidden problems in the long-term. You can do better for not much more money - for example I expect to sell my mint condition fully modded C32 for not a lot more than that by late summer. I'm not ready to let my baby go yet, so this is not about trying to get you to look at my car - I'm just saying that you can do better.
