97 E320: is it time to get rid of it??
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3
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97 E320: is it time to get rid of it??
I got a 97 E320 with 115k miles and with 3 major problems:
1. Transmission is slipping: Occasionally goes to safe mode and late switching when cold.
2. Electrical problems: check engine light is on for engine electronics.
3. Control arm bushings need to be replaced: clunk sound when turning.
To get the tranny rebuilt at a small shop is $2800, The electrical is $200 per 5 hours of labor and/or $800 computer, The bushings can be replaced for $600. The total would be anywhere from $3600-4400.
I should also mention that the car has been in an accident and has some small dents and dings. I paid $5000 for the car about 10k miles before.
My question is whether it is worth to fix the car and expect another 100k miles of smooth driving or to sell it or trade it in with a dealer?
Thanks for your advice.
1. Transmission is slipping: Occasionally goes to safe mode and late switching when cold.
2. Electrical problems: check engine light is on for engine electronics.
3. Control arm bushings need to be replaced: clunk sound when turning.
To get the tranny rebuilt at a small shop is $2800, The electrical is $200 per 5 hours of labor and/or $800 computer, The bushings can be replaced for $600. The total would be anywhere from $3600-4400.
I should also mention that the car has been in an accident and has some small dents and dings. I paid $5000 for the car about 10k miles before.
My question is whether it is worth to fix the car and expect another 100k miles of smooth driving or to sell it or trade it in with a dealer?
Thanks for your advice.
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: Mesa Arizona
1997 E320
Keep it
I would keep it, but I would also try and do all of the repairs myself. You should be able to find a new one for around $7k-$8k retail so it boils down to whether or not you trade it in on a new MB or some other car.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,627
Likes: 5
From: West Virginia
2001 E320 RWD - Brilliant Silver/Ash: 100,000+
Look around at the market, even on eBay if you are in an area with few private MBs for sale or MB dealers and see if we are not telling you correctly.
To clarify, I am not calling your car garbage, but I think the only way you can stay above water on that vehicle is if you save a lot of money by doing the repairs yourself.
