Took a C36 for a test drive yesterday, and enjoyed it. The only problem is that it seems to have a "shimmy" at 50 mph, that seems to be slightly directionally dependent (feels worse in right turn than left). Usual suspects: tire imbalance/trueness and suspension components. I will ask the current owner to fix it, but if I he can't then what should I reduce my offer by? How much does it cost to have a dealer replace a front upper control arm for instance? Tie-rod end?
Also, same question for an A/C system that doesn't blow air (feels cold when you are moving, but the a/c heater fan doesn't turn on). How much?
Thanks,
Vince
p.s. Love the car aside from these two flaws.

Best thing to do is have the stealership or an independant Mercedes mechanic look at it and then get quotes from them. I am fortunate enough that when I was looking for my C36 that my mechanic does not charge to look over a vehicle and give estimates for problems they find.

Tell him to fix and/or replace as necessary, obviously lower your price or take it to a shop that you trust and get an estimate (with some cushion) and tell him you'll buy if he knocks off the price of the repairs.

Yes deff get a pre-buyers inspection at Dealership (about $100-150) well worth it for avoiding future headaches...As others have replied the deler will also give you written estimate to bring everything up to snuf!

Thanks for the advice, I've put a post in the General Discussion forum asking for recommendations for Independent and Dealer shops in the LA South Bay area. If anybody has any advice here, let me know!

Great car for the $. I'm just that I purchased mine about 6months ago. Don't forget about carfax on the car.