Considering First Mercedes Purchase - E550
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Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
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Lexus IS350
Considering First Mercedes Purchase - E550
Hi everybody, I'm considering my first MB purchase and could certainly use the forum's help/advice.
I was considering getting an S4 previously but it wasn't until about a week or two that I got the idea of looking into a MB. I currently drive a '06 Lexus IS350 and looking to get a bigger car and one that is more mature looking.
I'm in the Los Angeles area. I test drove the C63, E350, and E550 today. Loved the C63 but going to go with the E-class for the bigger size as well as my preference for luxury over sport. Choosing the E550 for the extra speed as well as the extra options available on it. I think for now I want the steel grey with black interior with P2 and multicontour driving seat would be an extra perk (if available).
Couple questions for you guys:
1) From perusing through the other posts, it seems like I should be aiming for at least 8K off the MSRP, if not more. I was quoted 63,925 + fees for a MSRP of 71,085 (including the 4K for conquest) which is 7,160 off MSRP. I even saw one poster here who ended up buying a E350 for 10K off but mentioned shopping for the E550 and being offered 13K off MSRP. One resource someone mentioned is the Consumer Reports Build & Buy, so I'll give that a try.
2) Is it better to go with the 2011 E550's over the 2012 not only for the end of model year discounts but one thread/article mentioned the AIRMATIC air suspension would not be available in the upcoming year. If true, sounds like it's better to go with the 2011 unless there's something to make me hold out for the 2012 (and end up paying more)
3) If possible, I should try to see if the car I buy has the newer 2012 features available (from being manufactured more recently), which from what I gather is the color instrumentation display, 3D nav, and comand 4.5. As far as anyone knows, do any of the 2011's have the horizontal DRL LED's or is it just the hockey stick ones?
4) I was offered 19K for my 2006 Lexus IS350 which has about 33K miles on it. KBB says it's value in excellent condition is around 24K. The car has been in about 4 accidents (front bumper, rear bumper, side doors) but it has been always repaired. Looking at the car, there are no dents or scratches. I have never sold a car back to the dealership and given the accident history (which I mentioned to them already), realistically how much closer to the KBB estimate of 24K should I push them?
I think that's all the questions I have for right now. Appreciate the help with the above and open to any other advice/tips that you may have.
Thanks!
I was considering getting an S4 previously but it wasn't until about a week or two that I got the idea of looking into a MB. I currently drive a '06 Lexus IS350 and looking to get a bigger car and one that is more mature looking.
I'm in the Los Angeles area. I test drove the C63, E350, and E550 today. Loved the C63 but going to go with the E-class for the bigger size as well as my preference for luxury over sport. Choosing the E550 for the extra speed as well as the extra options available on it. I think for now I want the steel grey with black interior with P2 and multicontour driving seat would be an extra perk (if available).
Couple questions for you guys:
1) From perusing through the other posts, it seems like I should be aiming for at least 8K off the MSRP, if not more. I was quoted 63,925 + fees for a MSRP of 71,085 (including the 4K for conquest) which is 7,160 off MSRP. I even saw one poster here who ended up buying a E350 for 10K off but mentioned shopping for the E550 and being offered 13K off MSRP. One resource someone mentioned is the Consumer Reports Build & Buy, so I'll give that a try.
2) Is it better to go with the 2011 E550's over the 2012 not only for the end of model year discounts but one thread/article mentioned the AIRMATIC air suspension would not be available in the upcoming year. If true, sounds like it's better to go with the 2011 unless there's something to make me hold out for the 2012 (and end up paying more)
3) If possible, I should try to see if the car I buy has the newer 2012 features available (from being manufactured more recently), which from what I gather is the color instrumentation display, 3D nav, and comand 4.5. As far as anyone knows, do any of the 2011's have the horizontal DRL LED's or is it just the hockey stick ones?
4) I was offered 19K for my 2006 Lexus IS350 which has about 33K miles on it. KBB says it's value in excellent condition is around 24K. The car has been in about 4 accidents (front bumper, rear bumper, side doors) but it has been always repaired. Looking at the car, there are no dents or scratches. I have never sold a car back to the dealership and given the accident history (which I mentioned to them already), realistically how much closer to the KBB estimate of 24K should I push them?
I think that's all the questions I have for right now. Appreciate the help with the above and open to any other advice/tips that you may have.
Thanks!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
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1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
Hi everybody, I'm considering my first MB purchase and could certainly use the forum's help/advice.
I was considering getting an S4 previously but it wasn't until about a week or two that I got the idea of looking into a MB. I currently drive a '06 Lexus IS350 and looking to get a bigger car and one that is more mature looking.
I'm in the Los Angeles area. I test drove the C63, E350, and E550 today. Loved the C63 but going to go with the E-class for the bigger size as well as my preference for luxury over sport. Choosing the E550 for the extra speed as well as the extra options available on it. I think for now I want the steel grey with black interior with P2 and multicontour driving seat would be an extra perk (if available).
Couple questions for you guys:
1) From perusing through the other posts, it seems like I should be aiming for at least 8K off the MSRP, if not more. I was quoted 63,925 + fees for a MSRP of 71,085 (including the 4K for conquest) which is 7,160 off MSRP. I even saw one poster here who ended up buying a E350 for 10K off but mentioned shopping for the E550 and being offered 13K off MSRP. One resource someone mentioned is the Consumer Reports Build & Buy, so I'll give that a try.
A lot of the pricing information is regional. You didn't say where you are, so it is difficult to advise you.
2) Is it better to go with the 2011 E550's over the 2012 not only for the end of model year discounts but one thread/article mentioned the AIRMATIC air suspension would not be available in the upcoming year. If true, sounds like it's better to go with the 2011 unless there's something to make me hold out for the 2012 (and end up paying more)
You won't get a really good deal on a 2012 and I'm sure if the changes on the 550 are worth it.
3) If possible, I should try to see if the car I buy has the newer 2012 features available (from being manufactured more recently), which from what I gather is the color instrumentation display, 3D nav, and comand 4.5. As far as anyone knows, do any of the 2011's have the horizontal DRL LED's or is it just the hockey stick ones?
Sure. The late 2011 changes are always better.
4) I was offered 19K for my 2006 Lexus IS350 which has about 33K miles on it. KBB says it's value in excellent condition is around 24K. The car has been in about 4 accidents (front bumper, rear bumper, side doors) but it has been always repaired. Looking at the car, there are no dents or scratches. I have never sold a car back to the dealership and given the accident history (which I mentioned to them already), realistically how much closer to the KBB estimate of 24K should I push them?
Reality check here. Although you believe that your car is in "excellent" condition, dealers start from the "average or fair trade in" as a starting point. They really use auction prices which are even lower.
Since your car has had as many accidents as the average driver has in a lifetime (four) there is no possible way that it is even close to excellent.
Quite frankly, if the dealer knows about the accidents and has offered you $19k, then you should thank your lucky stars and grab that offer. The "fair" value for your car is probably in the $18-19k range.
You can always go to CARMAX to get a second opinion. If it is much higher then you can either sell it to them or use their quote to negotiate with the dealer.
I think that's all the questions I have for right now. Appreciate the help with the above and open to any other advice/tips that you may have.
Thanks!
I was considering getting an S4 previously but it wasn't until about a week or two that I got the idea of looking into a MB. I currently drive a '06 Lexus IS350 and looking to get a bigger car and one that is more mature looking.
I'm in the Los Angeles area. I test drove the C63, E350, and E550 today. Loved the C63 but going to go with the E-class for the bigger size as well as my preference for luxury over sport. Choosing the E550 for the extra speed as well as the extra options available on it. I think for now I want the steel grey with black interior with P2 and multicontour driving seat would be an extra perk (if available).
Couple questions for you guys:
1) From perusing through the other posts, it seems like I should be aiming for at least 8K off the MSRP, if not more. I was quoted 63,925 + fees for a MSRP of 71,085 (including the 4K for conquest) which is 7,160 off MSRP. I even saw one poster here who ended up buying a E350 for 10K off but mentioned shopping for the E550 and being offered 13K off MSRP. One resource someone mentioned is the Consumer Reports Build & Buy, so I'll give that a try.
A lot of the pricing information is regional. You didn't say where you are, so it is difficult to advise you.
2) Is it better to go with the 2011 E550's over the 2012 not only for the end of model year discounts but one thread/article mentioned the AIRMATIC air suspension would not be available in the upcoming year. If true, sounds like it's better to go with the 2011 unless there's something to make me hold out for the 2012 (and end up paying more)
You won't get a really good deal on a 2012 and I'm sure if the changes on the 550 are worth it.
3) If possible, I should try to see if the car I buy has the newer 2012 features available (from being manufactured more recently), which from what I gather is the color instrumentation display, 3D nav, and comand 4.5. As far as anyone knows, do any of the 2011's have the horizontal DRL LED's or is it just the hockey stick ones?
Sure. The late 2011 changes are always better.
4) I was offered 19K for my 2006 Lexus IS350 which has about 33K miles on it. KBB says it's value in excellent condition is around 24K. The car has been in about 4 accidents (front bumper, rear bumper, side doors) but it has been always repaired. Looking at the car, there are no dents or scratches. I have never sold a car back to the dealership and given the accident history (which I mentioned to them already), realistically how much closer to the KBB estimate of 24K should I push them?
Reality check here. Although you believe that your car is in "excellent" condition, dealers start from the "average or fair trade in" as a starting point. They really use auction prices which are even lower.
Since your car has had as many accidents as the average driver has in a lifetime (four) there is no possible way that it is even close to excellent.
Quite frankly, if the dealer knows about the accidents and has offered you $19k, then you should thank your lucky stars and grab that offer. The "fair" value for your car is probably in the $18-19k range.
You can always go to CARMAX to get a second opinion. If it is much higher then you can either sell it to them or use their quote to negotiate with the dealer.
I think that's all the questions I have for right now. Appreciate the help with the above and open to any other advice/tips that you may have.
Thanks!
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
Oh man, 4 accidents???? That thing could be diamond pristine, if those accidents show up on the Carfax, then you'll be lucky to get Salvaged Title discounting applied to your car from the Dealer.
Good luck, and good choice on the E.
Sky's the limit with the discounting on them right now it seems.
Good luck, and good choice on the E.
Sky's the limit with the discounting on them right now it seems.
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2011
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bmw
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 561
Likes: 2
From: New Mexico
2014 E350, 2012 SL550
The Conquest Cash is from MB to you. There is no dealer contribution to it. The dealer should give you AT LEAST invoice price (MSRP - 7%, I think) before you apply your $4k Conquest Cash. Depending on your location and number of dealers nearby, you may be able to do much better.
Regards,
Don
Regards,
Don
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MBWorld God!
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 31,273
Likes: 3,916
From: on my way
2012 CLS63
get some other concrete offers on your used car, if higher show them to the dealer......
should you push them?? HELL YES I SAY!!!! they'd push you, you know?
they're a DEALER..........LOL....
take 'em for all you can and feel no shame!!
should you push them?? HELL YES I SAY!!!! they'd push you, you know?
they're a DEALER..........LOL....
take 'em for all you can and feel no shame!!
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Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 160
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From: Olathe, KS
2011 E-350, 2010 GL-450
The conquest rebate expired last wednesday (Aug. 31)
I went to edmunds.com and it was posted as an incentive before and now it is gone, which fits with the expiration date of Aug. 31.
Has the dealer told you that it has been extended?
I went to edmunds.com and it was posted as an incentive before and now it is gone, which fits with the expiration date of Aug. 31.
Has the dealer told you that it has been extended?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 6
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Lexus IS350
I was at the dealership yesterday and the conquest rebate was still ongoing. 2K for C-class, 4K for E-class. I plan on financing the car but the 1.9/2.9 rates have expired now I believe.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Lexus IS350
The Conquest Cash is from MB to you. There is no dealer contribution to it. The dealer should give you AT LEAST invoice price (MSRP - 7%, I think) before you apply your $4k Conquest Cash. Depending on your location and number of dealers nearby, you may be able to do much better.
Regards,
Don
Regards,
Don
. Thanks.
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
2008 MB E350
You say you prefer luxury over sport, yet you are looking at a 550 instead of 350, and an S4? If you want the luxury package, I think it's easier to find in the 350 than 550. Personally, I prefer it because I can get the all-tan interior (light roof) and wood steering wheel.
You, like me, live in LA...you don't need the extra power...unless you want to get into accidents (which you seem to enjoy doing
) or get tickets for reckless driving and speeding. The 350 has more than enough power for this city...now if you want it because, at least here in LA, the 350 is a "ladies" car, then go right ahead...
Finally, with your driving record, I would lease...that way your not stuck with a car no one wants to buy 4-5 years down the road.
You, like me, live in LA...you don't need the extra power...unless you want to get into accidents (which you seem to enjoy doing
) or get tickets for reckless driving and speeding. The 350 has more than enough power for this city...now if you want it because, at least here in LA, the 350 is a "ladies" car, then go right ahead...Finally, with your driving record, I would lease...that way your not stuck with a car no one wants to buy 4-5 years down the road.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 530
Likes: 2
From: SoCal
'14 ML350 GONE-'12 GL450/'10 E550/'10 ML350/'09 C300/'07 ML350/'03 E320
Is it confirmed that the 2012 550's are 4matic only and no longer available with airmatic?
If so, the 2011 maybe better for the standard airmatic alone, on the 2012 ML350, the airmatic/active curve/wheels option costs $5,150, btw active curve looks like a great option...
If so, the 2011 maybe better for the standard airmatic alone, on the 2012 ML350, the airmatic/active curve/wheels option costs $5,150, btw active curve looks like a great option...
MBWorld God!
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 31,273
Likes: 3,916
From: on my way
2012 CLS63
You say you prefer luxury over sport, yet you are looking at a 550 instead of 350, and an S4? If you want the luxury package, I think it's easier to find in the 350 than 550. Personally, I prefer it because I can get the all-tan interior (light roof) and wood steering wheel.
You, like me, live in LA...you don't need the extra power...unless you want to get into accidents (which you seem to enjoy doing) or get tickets for reckless driving and speeding. The 350 has more than enough power for this city...now if you want it because, at least here in LA, the 350 is a "ladies" car, then go right ahead...
Finally, with your driving record, I would lease...that way your not stuck with a car no one wants to buy 4-5 years down the road.
You, like me, live in LA...you don't need the extra power...unless you want to get into accidents (which you seem to enjoy doing
) or get tickets for reckless driving and speeding. The 350 has more than enough power for this city...now if you want it because, at least here in LA, the 350 is a "ladies" car, then go right ahead...Finally, with your driving record, I would lease...that way your not stuck with a car no one wants to buy 4-5 years down the road.
what is this guy smokin'?
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 561
Likes: 2
From: New Mexico
2014 E350, 2012 SL550
I got that deal recently in a location where we have only one MB dealer in a 300 mile radius. This still left him with some "trunk money", meaning incentives from MB to the dealer.
If you live in an area with multiple dealers they will likely give up some of that trunk money to sell the car so you can get it for even less than $4k below invoice.
Regards,
Don
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 561
Likes: 2
From: New Mexico
2014 E350, 2012 SL550
4) I was offered 19K for my 2006 Lexus IS350 which has about 33K miles on it. KBB says it's value in excellent condition is around 24K. The car has been in about 4 accidents (front bumper, rear bumper, side doors) but it has been always repaired. Looking at the car, there are no dents or scratches. I have never sold a car back to the dealership and given the accident history (which I mentioned to them already), realistically how much closer to the KBB estimate of 24K should I push them?
Thanks!
With that history, the dealer is almost certain to wholesale the car rather than offer it on his lot. He would have trouble selling it since reputable dealers (is that an oxymoron?) offer CARFAX reports to prospective used car buyers.
Bottom line, even though the car may look to be in excellent condition, its' accident history is pretty much public knowledge.
Regards,
Don
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,133
Likes: 265
From: NM
2023 AMG EQS
Is it confirmed that the 2012 550's are 4matic only and no longer available with airmatic?
If so, the 2011 maybe better for the standard airmatic alone, on the 2012 ML350, the airmatic/active curve/wheels option costs $5,150, btw active curve looks like a great option...
If so, the 2011 maybe better for the standard airmatic alone, on the 2012 ML350, the airmatic/active curve/wheels option costs $5,150, btw active curve looks like a great option...
4matic is no longer an Option it is now Standard.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Lexus IS350
Just got home from the dealer with my new car. Paid around mid 56K for steel grey/black p2, parktronic, and multicontour driving seat, so roughly 11K off MSRP. It's late so didn't get a chance to drive it much tonight.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
MBWorld God!
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 31,273
Likes: 3,916
From: on my way
2012 CLS63
Just got home from the dealer with my new car. Paid around mid 56K for steel grey/black p2, parktronic, and multicontour driving seat, so roughly 11K off MSRP. It's late so didn't get a chance to drive it much tonight.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
PIX!!!!
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 311
Likes: 0
From: South Miami
2010 W212, 1985 C10
Just got home from the dealer with my new car. Paid around mid 56K for steel grey/black p2, parktronic, and multicontour driving seat, so roughly 11K off MSRP. It's late so didn't get a chance to drive it much tonight.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
Only things I'll change are window tinting and changing the grill to the ones like on the coupes. Anybody happen to have any recommendations for places in LA?
Thanks again for the help.
congrats on the new ride.. let's see a couple pics
