Considering a 2004 E Class
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: Florida
2002 S500
Considering a 2004 E Class
Hello forum, I am planning a return into the world of Mercedes after making a hasty exit with my 2002 C32 AMG.
This time I plan to be more informed and thus doing my due diligence.
If anyone could tell me what ‘issues’ I could expect from a 2004 E class (preferably the E500) that would be helpful. But more importantly, should I buy one? We know they look great but are they worth the trouble? My budget can only go for the ones with 80K+ miles, and any advise will be helpful.
Thank you
Don
This time I plan to be more informed and thus doing my due diligence.If anyone could tell me what ‘issues’ I could expect from a 2004 E class (preferably the E500) that would be helpful. But more importantly, should I buy one? We know they look great but are they worth the trouble? My budget can only go for the ones with 80K+ miles, and any advise will be helpful.
Thank you
Don
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 685
Likes: 121
From: Palm Coast, Florida
2019 E-450 Wagon
Love my 2004 E-500, but they do have issues:
The air struts, the heat exchanger valve for aft A/C outlet, motor-mounts, etc to name a few.
Bought my car with 74K miles. Did not have ***** to go without extended warranty and bought one from EasyCare.
The air struts, the heat exchanger valve for aft A/C outlet, motor-mounts, etc to name a few.
Bought my car with 74K miles. Did not have ***** to go without extended warranty and bought one from EasyCare.
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 4,957
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Ha! I had my 2002 C32 AMG for 4 years and little to no issues (mainly electrical). My 2004 E500 has been a great car, but not without the issues already stated. I have replaced rear air shocks and pump along with the heater valve and now need a new driver side SAM unit for another $1,000 bux. I have 84,000 miles and have replaced plugs at this point as well. My car runs really strong, does not burn any oil and the transmission (5 speed) is smooth with an occasional hickup when cold only. I have changed transmission, transfer case, differential, and brake fluids recently and all is good. I hope this thing runs forever because I still love it and it fits me way better than that C32 did. The reasonable price that you will pay for an '04 will be tempered by a higher maintenance cost, and the potential for a big bill along the way (airmatic, mainly). Just be sure to search the VIN and all maintenance records, so you can get the best picture of what the car has had done to it and what it may need going forward. Good luck!
