cetialpha5

And just to sum it up, balance shaft repairs range from 5-8k at the dealer. The parts are under 1k. Years ago some people mentioned getting it done at an indy for 3k or some people DIY the job but it took a while. The indys can be hit or miss, one guy had it done with a shop and it didn't quite run right afterwards. SBC repairs are in the 1-1.5k range. All 2006 had the bad balance shaft, not sure what percentage have failed yet. That's why I'd get a 2007+, no SBC, has the face lift and if after 9/2006, it probably doesn't have the balance shaft problem. So that's about 1/3 of the 2007's out there. Mileage is also important because if you get up there, the intake manifold on an M272 will need to be replaced anywhere from 100-150k. That should be under 1k though because the manifold is a bit under $500 with gaskets and other parts.

Lots of 2006's getting dumped all the time because of this issue. For chuckles I also go through my local craigslist and I see 2006's listed as CEL on, not sure what's wrong, probably something minor and I just know it's the balance shaft. Also I'd just get a cheap $20 ELM327 code reader to bring with you to check out cars, that way you can see what the error code is, whether it's in the ready state which tells you whether codes have been erased or not. Cheaper and less of a waste of time taking the car to a dealer to get checked out.

Bahnstormer

When I was shopping for a W211 a little over a year ago I came upon a nice looking 2006 E350, loaded with options including a Pano roof (a feature I really wanted).
At the time I had no idea of the balance shaft issue but for some other reason ended up passing on the car and purchasing a nice 2003 E500, which I absolutely love, airmatic issues and all. Strange how fate sometimes plays out in your favor - be patient and you'll find the right car for your daughter.