bobcatflip

My 03 E320 has 130,000 miles on it and still runs perfect. It was suggested to me that I add "Lucas Fuel Conditioner/ Fuel Injector Cleaner" to a full tank of gas every 3 fill-ups. And "Lucas Oil Treatment" to the crankcase oil at each change. Any thoughts from all you experienced E Series owners? Is this snake oil? Is it a good idea? Is there something better or should I not add anything?

Vik888

I don't buy into all this crap. MB knows whats best to keep that engine running.

W Cole

The only fuel injector cleaner I use is the Chevron stuff. I wouldn't put anything in the oil on this car. If it ain't broke...

Barry45RPM

I use Techron once, maybe twice a year. I run Sunoco or Mobil if I have to. No Unbranded gas, No Hess.

My Dad (87) always runs his 2001 W210 on some stuff called "Race Trac" Regular grade. 60 Thou on his car, no problems, but its a 320, so performance is sort of out of the question.

skiahh

Once upon a time, stuff like Lucas was good because there wasn't much in the gas or oil you put in your car. Today's fuels have detergents and other stuff in them already making fuel additives unnecessary. Same for oils... the additive packages in modern oils make additives (as well as the "mandatory" 3K oil change) completely unnecessary.

Use quality fluids and you won't need any of the "snake oils" that our corporate memory keep in business!

(Note: the additives won't hurt your car and may even help a little... but they're not cost effective at all)

MBZ16V

I had a 98 E320 with 220,000 miles on it before it got totaled. It never needed additives for the fuel or the oil (engine or transmission). I only changed the oil when the FSS said it was time, and the transmission and rear end oil every 70K miles. The car ran very well, with the only thing I was contemplating on doing was replacing the timing chain. I was only glad I didn't have it done as it was totaled by the insurance company. IMHO, 130K miles is low for these engines.

jbec.keane

I have 247,000 on my 2003 E320 and at the recommendation of my service advisor, I have been putting Techron in about 4 times a year. I would not add any additives to the oil.

Other than that, I change my oil according to the FSS and still take my car to MB for service. I'm sure that is why I have about 100K more on this car than any other car I have ever owned. In all the previous cases, I would switch to local shops to change the oil and just fix what was broken after about 100K miles. With the MB, I just keep going back to the dealer for service.

JK

bobcatflip

Wow..247K! I hope I can get that much out of mine. I recently drove an 07' E350 sport trim and I found that my 03' drives MUCH smoother. Thats what I want mostly..is a comfortable ride. By the way..I like the plate!

Vik888

MB engines have a history of lasting a long time. Its not the engine I'm concerned about with these cars, its the electronics and other gadgets (i.e. COMAND, Airmatic struts, electronic trunk closer, etc.)

jbec.keane

The plate is one my car and I drive across New Jersey Monday thru Friday. The reaction to the plate is mostly positive, at least since 2004.

JK

starbrite

Hey Barry, how come no Hess ? I thought it was good stuff.

bobcatflip

Vik888..Im with you about the electronics and doo-dads..Im no fan of my noisy SBC brake system. And when my radio unit just stopped working one day and I had to replace it, I was thrilled! What about the suspensions on these cars? Or any other parts I should watch out for as it enters its Senior Years?

Vik888

bobcatflip, does your car have Airmatic? I know those struts are an arm and a leg to replace.

bobcatflip

No and from what I hear, I should be happy about that. (for repairing anyway)