Bought a CPO, dealer refuses to let me view VMI
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
Bought a CPO, dealer refuses to let me view VMI
I just purchased a 2008 CPO vehicle from a local mercedes dealer, and i've only had it for 2 days and the vehicle is back at the dealer for repairs on 12 different issues. I feel like I am getting ripped off, what's the purpose of buying a Certified pre-owned vehicle if I found 12 different issues ranging from the keyless-go, to the brakes, alignment, electronic trunk closer, and the filters all within 48 hours of delivery...
I asked the dealer if they're are able to provide me with the VMI but they refused...
Any dealer on here willing to fax or email the VMI to me?
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
I asked the dealer if they're are able to provide me with the VMI but they refused...
Any dealer on here willing to fax or email the VMI to me?
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
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Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 104
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From: NYC
W212 E350 P2 AMG Appearance
Are they refusing to fix the problems? If so that's ridiculous what state are you in? In NY they are required to fix all problems that arise with in 30 days even if the vehicle is sold with out a warranty. Would they provide you with the CPO inspection report? If they are unwilling to work with you and provide you with any proof that the vehicle had a full inspection prior to delivery submit a complaint to the BBB (better business bureau).
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Porsche 991S, Cayenne S, 1972 BMW 3.0CS E9 Coupe
What's wrong with the brakes? A CPO car can't be sold in the first place without brakes that work.
If these are things that you are noticing but perhaps fall under passing the CPO, then that's something else. And the dealer is fixing them, right? Once they're fixed then see how it goes. After all you have a CPO warranty that's good at any dealer (try another dealer, etc..)
When people post that they have "issues" it would be helpful to post specifically what those issues are. Having "problems" is too generic. e.g., how do you know alignment is off unless you put it on the rack, etc.. Maybe it's something else (irregular tire pressure, e.g.)
They don't have to give you the VMI, but that's something that should always be part of the initial buying process. (I also do an Indy ppi even with CPO cars, fwiw.)
If these are things that you are noticing but perhaps fall under passing the CPO, then that's something else. And the dealer is fixing them, right? Once they're fixed then see how it goes. After all you have a CPO warranty that's good at any dealer (try another dealer, etc..)
When people post that they have "issues" it would be helpful to post specifically what those issues are. Having "problems" is too generic. e.g., how do you know alignment is off unless you put it on the rack, etc.. Maybe it's something else (irregular tire pressure, e.g.)
They don't have to give you the VMI, but that's something that should always be part of the initial buying process. (I also do an Indy ppi even with CPO cars, fwiw.)
Thread Starter
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
I brought the car back to the dealer yesterday morning to have the items looked at, they are repairing them as we speak. and will be giving me a call back tomorrow around noon with an update.
The brake issue, you have to depress the brake pedal all the way down to the floor to get the vehicle slowed down.. even by 3-4mph....
and whenever the vehicle is driven at 55mph or above, it pulls to the left.
other issues:
1) Keyless-go, key is not detected at times
2) drivers door fails to unlock when door handle is pulled, instead car keeps re-locking.
3) electronic trunk closer, when trunk is closed electronically, springs in trunk make loud screeching noises heard from exterior/interior of vehicle.
4) Tele-Aid(mBrace) inoperable
5) Emergency parking brake, rubber cover is missing
6) Wipers do not clean windshield at all, just makes it more blurry
7) rear right side door sunshade plastic lining is peeling apart
this car has so many issues, which the originating dealer should have found during their initial CPO inspection.
The brake issue, you have to depress the brake pedal all the way down to the floor to get the vehicle slowed down.. even by 3-4mph....
and whenever the vehicle is driven at 55mph or above, it pulls to the left.
other issues:
1) Keyless-go, key is not detected at times
2) drivers door fails to unlock when door handle is pulled, instead car keeps re-locking.
3) electronic trunk closer, when trunk is closed electronically, springs in trunk make loud screeching noises heard from exterior/interior of vehicle.
4) Tele-Aid(mBrace) inoperable
5) Emergency parking brake, rubber cover is missing
6) Wipers do not clean windshield at all, just makes it more blurry
7) rear right side door sunshade plastic lining is peeling apart
this car has so many issues, which the originating dealer should have found during their initial CPO inspection.
Last edited by ammar249; Mar 16, 2010 at 11:42 PM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
Apparently, the dealer which I bought the vehicle from had the car trucked in from a another dealer about 100 miles away...
The other dealer which the car was shipped from, they are the ones that did the CPO inspection, and apparently found an "oil leak from the back of head", replaced engine air filter, replaced keyless go antenna in center console and mounted/balanced two new front tires per their invoice copy.
The invoice also stated that vehicle needs to have "recommend replace climate filter, brake system flush, found all rims are damaged but no leaks found"...
Sales Rep, which I purchased the vehicle from sincerely apologized to me stating that the other dealer "dropped the ball big time" on their CPO inspection.
I feel like giving the car back, its a 2008 E350 4MATIC
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
The other dealer which the car was shipped from, they are the ones that did the CPO inspection, and apparently found an "oil leak from the back of head", replaced engine air filter, replaced keyless go antenna in center console and mounted/balanced two new front tires per their invoice copy.
The invoice also stated that vehicle needs to have "recommend replace climate filter, brake system flush, found all rims are damaged but no leaks found"...
Sales Rep, which I purchased the vehicle from sincerely apologized to me stating that the other dealer "dropped the ball big time" on their CPO inspection.
I feel like giving the car back, its a 2008 E350 4MATIC
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
Last edited by ammar249; Mar 16, 2010 at 11:41 PM.
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Porsche 991S, Cayenne S, 1972 BMW 3.0CS E9 Coupe
Get the CPO checklist report from them. Brakes must be 100% for the car to be sold in the first place.
Don't forget you can always go to another dealer. In fact, that might be a good idea. You would be taking the car to a competitor and that dealer would no doubt quickly point out anything the selling dealer didn't do correctly. And if the car wasn't CPO'd correctly you can contact MBUSA to report it.
edit: just read your new post. It might be smarter to put her in a lease. Not sure about where you live but it could be hard to get out of the deal if you bought the car already and the paperwork (title) is being processed. Each state (if you're in the US) has different legal "cooling off periods" to change your mind about the deal.
Don't forget you can always go to another dealer. In fact, that might be a good idea. You would be taking the car to a competitor and that dealer would no doubt quickly point out anything the selling dealer didn't do correctly. And if the car wasn't CPO'd correctly you can contact MBUSA to report it.
edit: just read your new post. It might be smarter to put her in a lease. Not sure about where you live but it could be hard to get out of the deal if you bought the car already and the paperwork (title) is being processed. Each state (if you're in the US) has different legal "cooling off periods" to change your mind about the deal.
Last edited by 220S; Mar 16, 2010 at 11:33 PM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
I have the "Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-owned Inspection and Certification Report" right here in front of me..
you know I just realized something, the print out on the report on all six pages say printed out on 3.12.2010, thats the day I took delivery of the vehicle, but the service invoice from the originating dealer(where the car was shipped from) says the CPO was performed on March 2nd.
On top of that all six pages say "OK-Passed" on all the items, and the last page which indicates a space for remarks and a signature from the Tech and the service manager are not even signed...
dealer probably hid the original CPO report they received with vehicle.
you know I just realized something, the print out on the report on all six pages say printed out on 3.12.2010, thats the day I took delivery of the vehicle, but the service invoice from the originating dealer(where the car was shipped from) says the CPO was performed on March 2nd.
On top of that all six pages say "OK-Passed" on all the items, and the last page which indicates a space for remarks and a signature from the Tech and the service manager are not even signed...
dealer probably hid the original CPO report they received with vehicle.
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Porsche 991S, Cayenne S, 1972 BMW 3.0CS E9 Coupe
Yeah, somebody dropped the ball big time. All dealers want is to sell cars and make $$ off of service (hey, just like any business.) But some are worse than others about it. I'd make sure you let them know how displeased you are and tell them that you are going to contact MBUSA first before they do anything else. Be nice and be firm, but threaten them that way.
In the end they'll have to make good one way or another. But you don't want your Mom in a problem car. Plus it's no fun to feel like some grubbing dealer is taking advantage of you.
Good luck.
In the end they'll have to make good one way or another. But you don't want your Mom in a problem car. Plus it's no fun to feel like some grubbing dealer is taking advantage of you.
Good luck.
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Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
Thank you so much, You've been a great help, I'm going to get in touch with MB Customer Relations tomorrow morning.
:
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Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 685
Likes: 121
From: Palm Coast, Florida
2019 E-450 Wagon
Hmm, that is a bit disappointing...
Always thought the MB CPO program was so good that you could not go wrong:
Slight vibration and they put 4 now tires on, no questions asked..Etc.
Here is a guy with multiple problems including dead brakes and it was a CPO...@ $40K
I bought my E-500 on ebay, unseen and for $50K less than new/sticker price and never had a problem...Go figure.
Always thought the MB CPO program was so good that you could not go wrong:
Slight vibration and they put 4 now tires on, no questions asked..Etc.
Here is a guy with multiple problems including dead brakes and it was a CPO...@ $40K
I bought my E-500 on ebay, unseen and for $50K less than new/sticker price and never had a problem...Go figure.
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Posts: 1,690
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From: Irvine, CA
2008 E550, 2012 GL450, 2014 GLK350, 2015 S550, 2020 GLC350e
Sounds like your dealer at least admitted that someone dropped the ball and are working to fix the issues. It also means that if they admitted some other dealer dropped the ball, then they will back you up on any claims made to MBUSA.
I would have them RECERTIFY the car as CPO and restart your warranty.
I would have them RECERTIFY the car as CPO and restart your warranty.
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Joined: Jan 2007
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GL550
Apparently, the dealer which I bought the vehicle from had the car trucked in from a another dealer about 100 miles away...
The other dealer which the car was shipped from, they are the ones that did the CPO inspection, and apparently found an "oil leak from the back of head", replaced engine air filter, replaced keyless go antenna in center console and mounted/balanced two new front tires per their invoice copy.
The invoice also stated that vehicle needs to have "recommend replace climate filter, brake system flush, found all rims are damaged but no leaks found"...
Sales Rep, which I purchased the vehicle from sincerely apologized to me stating that the other dealer "dropped the ball big time" on their CPO inspection.
I feel like giving the car back, its a 2008 E350 4MATIC
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
The other dealer which the car was shipped from, they are the ones that did the CPO inspection, and apparently found an "oil leak from the back of head", replaced engine air filter, replaced keyless go antenna in center console and mounted/balanced two new front tires per their invoice copy.
The invoice also stated that vehicle needs to have "recommend replace climate filter, brake system flush, found all rims are damaged but no leaks found"...
Sales Rep, which I purchased the vehicle from sincerely apologized to me stating that the other dealer "dropped the ball big time" on their CPO inspection.
I feel like giving the car back, its a 2008 E350 4MATIC
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 421
Likes: 14
From: Bay Area
2004 E500 CLK320
I think most CPO inspections are done by visual inspection -- checking for oil leaks, cracks here and there, etc. Electrical oddities are more difficult to check. Your car is pulling to the left is most likely due to wheel alignment. When I bought my CPO, the car was pulling to the right at highway speed. When I told the service advisor, he said alignment is not included in the CPO process, but they did test drove the car a few street blocks to make sure the car was going straight. But I told him that a CPO car should be a perfect car and that's the reason I bought a CPO and not just any used car. If driving the car a few blocks didn't detect the misalignment issue, then the CPO process was a failure ensuring that it's a perfect car. The whole purpose of getting the car certified is that the new owner does not need to pay for any repairs immediately. He understood what I was talking about and did the alignment for free. Basd on my experience, I think your service rep will insist you to pay for the wheel alignment.
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From: Arizona
SL55AMG, Ferrari 348, Ferrari Testarossa, Ferrari F40, Ferrari Mondial t, Ducati 916, Indycar
It sounds like the selling dealer is addressing the issues. However, there is no way this should have happened in the first place. I would consider giving it back and going after a less problematic car.
Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 104
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From: NYC
W212 E350 P2 AMG Appearance
See if they are willing to switch you out to a different car. Tell them you dont want it and see what they say. I have had this done for me in the past by a dealer. I purchase a pre owned CPO car 2 days after I drove off the dealers lot the drivers side rear brake pad slipped off along with something from the caliper and all I heard was a loud grinding sound. I then had the car towed to the dealer. When the dealer told me what happened I went ape sh*# 
. They did a VIN swap with the bank and gave me a different car . Best of Luck
. They did a VIN swap with the bank and gave me a different car . Best of Luck
Last edited by Frasmat; Mar 17, 2010 at 12:49 PM. Reason: mistype
Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 165
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2014 E350, 2015 ML350, 2017 X5
Return the car if possible. I had a similar experience with CPO Lexus GS400.
Most of the the problems you described shouldn't even be there CPO or not if the car was taken care of properly. Usually, problem cars like that creates more problems in the future.
Most of the the problems you described shouldn't even be there CPO or not if the car was taken care of properly. Usually, problem cars like that creates more problems in the future.
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Posts: 1,063
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From: Charlotte, NC
2002 S430, 2004 Cobra, 2004 Tahoe
What is the last 7 of the VIN. Legally, I cannot fax over the VMI, but will look at it to tell you if there has been any serious issues with the car. Most dealers will let you see the VMI, but it does contain personal information from the previous owner, so that is probably why they will not let you have a copy. When buying a CPO car, you do have a 7 day or 500 mile exchange policy.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 528
Likes: 20
From: Chicago IL
X166 gls450 2017
dude this is all small stuff, if the car still drives smooth (suspension wise) and there are no transmission shift issues, you know the major stuff - I'd just get things fixed from the stealer as much as I can (for free i.e) and be a happy camper! DONT LET IT OUT OF WARRANTY THOUGH - trust me I learnt the hard way..
Do check the quality of fluids: engine oil (should be brownish not black), differential fluid, coolant, brake fluid -- these are maintenance items which you'd have to pay for later on
I'd also urge him to give free alignment if the car pulls in one direction (most Es do) and if thats not fixed, fight for tire replacements
Do check the quality of fluids: engine oil (should be brownish not black), differential fluid, coolant, brake fluid -- these are maintenance items which you'd have to pay for later on
I'd also urge him to give free alignment if the car pulls in one direction (most Es do) and if thats not fixed, fight for tire replacements
Last edited by 007_e350; Mar 18, 2010 at 09:49 PM.
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Posts: 392
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From: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
W211 Elegance Saloon
Well, it does sounds like the dealership is addressing the problems. I would definitely check the car out thoroughly when they return it to you. You bought a CPO car with a Warranty so none of those problems should be your concern short of the car-less inconvenience. Escalate the issue to CAC if necessary. CAC is, from my experience, very helpful and will do everything they can to resolve your concerns, within reason. Alluding to litigation has also been helpful to me once or twice but take caution with that and YMMV.
In cases like this, stand your ground and dont give in. Make sure you are informed as to your problems and their solutions so they don't think they are dealing with an ignorant pushover of a customer. It does wonders..really
In cases like this, stand your ground and dont give in. Make sure you are informed as to your problems and their solutions so they don't think they are dealing with an ignorant pushover of a customer. It does wonders..really
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From: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
W211 Elegance Saloon
1) Keyless-go, key is not detected at times
Could be the battery in the key or the module needs replacing. Easy fix
2) drivers door fails to unlock when door handle is pulled, instead car keeps re-locking.
Sounds like the door lock actuator needs replacing. Easy fix
3) electronic trunk closer, when trunk is closed electronically, springs in trunk make loud screeching noises heard from exterior/interior of vehicle.
The springs are cheap and easy to replace. But screeching could be rust and a sign of water leaking in to the trunk. Make sure to check for that.
4) Tele-Aid(mBrace) inoperable
No more TeleAid. This is just a matter of turning off SOS message in SDS. Easy fix
5) Emergency parking brake, rubber cover is missing
These are like $15-$20 dollars. There are some cool aluminum ones that you may want to consider. Easy fix.
6) Wipers do not clean windshield at all, just makes it more blurry
The dealer can replace wiper blades and adjust the wiper arm angle with a special tool that only they have. Easy 5 minute fix
7) rear right side door sunshade plastic lining is peeling apart
They may put in a new sunshade but will require taking the door panel off.
Could be the battery in the key or the module needs replacing. Easy fix
2) drivers door fails to unlock when door handle is pulled, instead car keeps re-locking.
Sounds like the door lock actuator needs replacing. Easy fix
3) electronic trunk closer, when trunk is closed electronically, springs in trunk make loud screeching noises heard from exterior/interior of vehicle.
The springs are cheap and easy to replace. But screeching could be rust and a sign of water leaking in to the trunk. Make sure to check for that.
4) Tele-Aid(mBrace) inoperable
No more TeleAid. This is just a matter of turning off SOS message in SDS. Easy fix
5) Emergency parking brake, rubber cover is missing
These are like $15-$20 dollars. There are some cool aluminum ones that you may want to consider. Easy fix.
6) Wipers do not clean windshield at all, just makes it more blurry
The dealer can replace wiper blades and adjust the wiper arm angle with a special tool that only they have. Easy 5 minute fix
7) rear right side door sunshade plastic lining is peeling apart
They may put in a new sunshade but will require taking the door panel off.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 19
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From: Alexandria, VA
CPO 08 E350 4MATIC AMG SPORT/P2... totaled 05 e320 4matic R.I.P. 12/04 - 2/10
Service Advisor called today, stating they are ordering some parts for the vehicle... he didn't really go into too much detail, bet their worried that I'm going to go march myself there right that moment, asking for my money back lol.
Right Rear door panel is being replaced..
new blades
brake system flush
Found a damaged rim, that is being repaired..(cause of vibration)
Couple of parts ordered from MB, for Keyless-Go issues..
and some more stuff, he said vehicle should be ready by either tomorrow afternoon or saturday..I'm going to make sure my sales man is there, when I go pick up the vehicle.. so we can go for a test drive and review the invoice.
Right Rear door panel is being replaced..
new blades
brake system flush
Found a damaged rim, that is being repaired..(cause of vibration)
Couple of parts ordered from MB, for Keyless-Go issues..
and some more stuff, he said vehicle should be ready by either tomorrow afternoon or saturday..I'm going to make sure my sales man is there, when I go pick up the vehicle.. so we can go for a test drive and review the invoice.
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 57
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From: Colorado Springs, CO
09 E320 Bluetec
I feel like giving the car back, its a 2008 E350 4MATIC
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
040 Black
821 Black Leather
P02 Premium II Package
220 Parktronic
287 Split Folding rear seats
297 Rear Side-Window Blinds
321 AMG Sport Package
413 Panorama Sunroof
732 Black Birdseye maple wood trim
881 Electronic Trunk Closer
Mileage: 32,998
Price: 39,500
I bought this vehicle for my mom, after our old 2005 E-class was totaled 3 weeks ago, after a guy ran his red light.
Might just be better for me, to lease her a new 2010 C300 4matic..
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,063
Likes: 2
From: Charlotte, NC
2002 S430, 2004 Cobra, 2004 Tahoe
