rondocap

So I have a 2001 S55 AMG, 349 horsepower, etc. I love the car - fun to drive, great looking, etc. It's got 140k miles on it now, and it's far out of warranty so it gets expensive to fix.

I wanted to change into something else - perhaps a C55 AMG. Now, I have a few questions. I know it will be faster, since it's nearly the same engine but a lot lighter body.

My main concern is with reliability and maintenance though: My S55 is full of stuff that can go wrong, ABC suspension, various electronics, etc. How is the C55? Any "Dangerous" items that go bad and are expensive to fix? I'd assume it is cheaper to maintain than the S class because it has slightly less stuff to go wrong in it. Is Mercedes the best warranty I can get up to 100k miles? What about afterwards?

Any thoughts appreciated!

AMGSC

Have you thought of an E55 if you want to add another $10K to your budget? If not, then for around $20K for a low mileage 2006 C55 is a good choice. I'm happy with mine even after all the crazy stuff I did to mine.

I assume you are not concerned about the size if you are inquiring into this chasis.

TemjinX2

the c55 came out as a late model w203, so most of the electrical problems have been fixed like the other late model w203's. From the feedback on the forum, the c55 is pretty much bulletin proof.

But i agree, if you use to driving a s55, I would opt for a e55. The c55 might be too small for you in comparison to a s55.

rondocap

Yeah, I used to have a C class before the S55 so I know it is much smaller, but I'm a bit hesitant to go with an E55 because I'd figure it has more chances to give reliability issues than the C55...supercharger, airmatic suspension, and all that good stuff. I drive 40k miles a year, so it makes a big difference!

TemjinX2

maybe keep the s55 and just buy a beater acura. Like a tl or tsx. You get leather, hids and 28mpg and low maintence costs.

RLx02

Things that went wrong on my C55 (26k miles when I bought it)

Heated seats @ 40k (Heated back works, but butt warmers don't)
"Dog bone" part for steering wheel tilt @ 40k
Power steering pump @ 48k
Voltage regulator @ 51k

my master tech buddy told me to stay away from the 03-05 w211's because of electrical and airmatic problems...the newer 211's are supposed to be built better though.

C43AMG

Driving 40k a year ? E320 CDI !