Sooo after 3 months, 3 different dealerships, MB Corporate Regional Manager, and a solution of the noise Im hearing is "normal operation" I have decided to ditch the 2011 E350 for a 2015 E350. I loved the 2011 which was in excellent condition and just had ALL the wood replaced and engine sound proofing fixed but I just couldn't get past the engine sounding like a diesel and nothing being done about it. I do have to say that corporate came through and was as helpful as they could be I guess. The SM at the third dealership that looked at the car was very informative and actually listened to my concerns and didn't try to belittle me as being someone who doesn't know what they are talking about, I'm a Mechanical Engineer and have a very good idea of how motors and equipment is suppose to operate and sound. As for that they earned my business on leasing a new vehicle.

Okay so here is my deal!

I got a little less for the trade in value than I wanted but still came out owing nothing on my current loan, mind you the loan was only 3 months old.
Trade in $25000

2015 Mercedes E350 Sport 4matic black on black.
27 Month Lease 10K miles a year
MSRP $63030
Negotiated Price $50030
(please note that this included a $2000 credit from MB corporate for all the hassle and $1000 Amex Certificate)
Total Discount $13000
MF 0.00125 which is about 3%
Down payment $4000 (included the refund for the ELW on the 2011 $2106)
First payment also due at signing anddddd here we goooo $359.43

Yes thats right $359.43 a month

So all in all I believe that I received a decent deal and couldn't bring myself to leave the Mercedes Brand.

Only problem so far is that driving home I did feel the DREADED harsh downshift from gear 4-3 once. I am driving the car in Sport mode for the first 1000 miles to hopefully get the transmission adaptations right and then switch to Eco Mode and see how it goes. If the problem gets worse they will be sure to hear from me!

 

10K miles wouldn't be enough for me! Sounds like a good deal though!

 

Thanks! Yes it is low mileage but with the MB Amex Platinum I get an extra 2000 miles on turn in and plan on turning it in 3 months early to avoid registering it for the extra months. So that gives me a little over 12k miles a year. I am also leasing a 2015 Corolla S with 12k miles a year so I split the mileage between the two for a total of 24k a year!

 

I'd say you did great. Nice low payment, and it sounds like you're happier with the change in car.