Question: New Owner / Pre-owned CLK
I've read these boards for many months and just recently was able to pick up a 2001 CLK 320 which I am already in love with.
The car has 44K on it and I'm a little unsure as to what options I have in terms of maintenance before the warranty expires.
I don't have service records, but after a self inspection (pretty thorough), everything appears in top shape. (I did notice an extremely minor stutter with the driver-side window, and plan on getting that looked at soon. )
I guess my question is: How do I make sure everything is up to date on this car's internals? (fluids, electrics, etc.) Can I expect MB Service to do this for me under warranty?
Also:
There is no extended warranty for this vehicle right now. Should/can I go through MB on this or is it too late?
I think I just need to drop MB a line, but I do appreciate any feedback. Again, I love this car, I just need to get past some of the housekeepin' on it.
First mod already ordered-> flat emblem comin' soon.
Well, lets see... sometimes, no matter how meticulous you are about inspecting, there may be something hidden that you don't find.
Here are some options:
1.) Get good with an advisor at the dealership, this will help down the line
2.) If you are concerned about mechanical/electrical poblems, have the dealer perform a FULL PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION, costs about $150-$200? (You probably should have done this before buying).
3.) If any problems arise from the above inspection, have it ALL repaired pronto before the warranty expires
4.) Have the dealer perform a B service if they haven't already...
5.) You are out of luck in terms of buying an extended MB Premium warranty as that is limited to the original owner, and must be purchased during the first year of the car's ownership. You are however eligible for the Daimler Benz extended warranty, and you can check with your F&I Manager at the dealership for details.... There are some aftermarket extended warranties you can look into also,...... they vary by location, so check with your dealer to see who they recommend or have worked with.
I highly suggest getting an extended warranty.... its just a peace of mind... just think of it as a loss, as many will hope to never have to utilize the warranty... but, in the case you do need to use it, you will be very happy as MB service/labor is very expensive...
Thanks MMGrad!
Your input is really helpful- and appreciated- I'll look in to your suggestions ASAP.
-Chris
Mmgrad - great advice. What is the difference between the A and B service? Does the extended warranty cover the regular services or is that just on the parts. Thanks
The dealer can check for the A and B services and the car's repair history done under warranty through the MB computers.
You don't have to wait for the FSS to tell you to go for service because the policy now is 1 year or 10k miles between the free services under warranty.
An extended warranty will usually cover parts and labor for broken items...not wear items like brakes. It won't pay for the A and B services that change the oil and filter, top off fluids, rotate tires, and inspect and lubricate a bunch of things.
I've got them on my cars and they could be worth it if there are a couple of major repairs. Don't forget, it is insurance.
I scheduled everything through my guy at MB Service and he quoted me $150 on the inspection. He said he'd take care of anything that looked problematic under warranty the same day, as well as give it service maintenance. Hopefully I'll be good to go after that.
Laiv:
I lucked out and got it for about $6000 under Black Book (extra clean) value. It took more haggling than I care to do, but at the end of the day, they needed to clear some inventory and I paid the same as a 2000 model.
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Right on the money, mmgrad.
I scheduled everything through my guy at MB Service and he quoted me $150 on the inspection. He said he'd take care of anything that looked problematic under warranty the same day, as well as give it service maintenance. Hopefully I'll be good to go after that.
Laiv:
I lucked out and got it for about $6000 under Black Book (extra clean) value. It took more haggling than I care to do, but at the end of the day, they needed to clear some inventory and I paid the same as a 2000 model.
Thats a pretty good price. Besides, nothing physically different between '00 & '01...
and yeah, extended warranty is basically parts... scheduled services (a & b) are not covered... A & B service... to sum up, A is an oil change & topping off fluids, and minor inspections... B is changing most or all fluids (flush and replenish), and slightly deeper inspections... (i think)...
My car is actually at the shop now getting my B service, so when I get the report back, then I can compare with my A service report and I'll tell you what was different.
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