Noob looking at getting a 500E
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
BMW E46 M3
Noob looking at getting a 500E
Hey guys, I currently daily an E46 M3 and love it, but am thinking of picking up a 500E to keep the miles off the M. My main worry though is reliability. Are these pretty solid cars? What are the most common issues? I know the wiring harness's go bad, but how often do they need to be replaced, and have they been redesigned so it's a one time thing? What other areas have trouble? Are they rust prone? If so, where? How long do the engines normally last for? How about the transmission? Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated, nothing is too mundane. What else should I know about these things?
Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 236
Likes: 0
From: stamford, CT
1993 Mercedes 300e 4-matic (m103 motor)
headgasket and wirign harness. Both were updated by mercedes and will only need be replaced once.
Other than that a low mileage 500e will need basic matinance liek all other cars but will last a long long time.
Other than that a low mileage 500e will need basic matinance liek all other cars but will last a long long time.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 550
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
Range Rover Classic
The m119 doesn't have head gasket issues.
The engine will require timing chain replacement at some point. Its not the chain but the plastic guides which fail. The wiring harness is the other big one.
Rust can occur but its not common. Check behind the front fenders as debri can accumulate there but be doubly sure to check the jack points.
The engine will require timing chain replacement at some point. Its not the chain but the plastic guides which fail. The wiring harness is the other big one.
Rust can occur but its not common. Check behind the front fenders as debri can accumulate there but be doubly sure to check the jack points.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,491
Likes: 2
From: Vancouver, BC
Enzo, my Benzo
Yeah the only prominent rust area on the W124 is on the 90-95 cars with the side body cladding, the water gets in behind the chrome strips and may rust if not watched/cared for. My car has this issue on the drivers door:
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 801
Likes: 0
From: Anaheim, CA
a TVR Cerbera Speed Twelve
Wiring harness should be replaced once, also check for leaks from the power steering pump. These engines can last for a looong time if taken care of properly (maintenance is key - oil changes on-time etc.).
