rg0115

Hi all. I am back on the hunt for my next dream car and daily drivers. For years I have had my eyes on a Benz wagon. At first I was going for a 2009 S211 but since I never found the right one at the right price and we are now seeing the prices drop on S212 I switch my search to a 2012 Wagon. I am single dad with twin boys so the practicality is what really made me pick a wagon. I think wagons are awesome and I like them better than SUVs.

At first I was looking at 2011 as prices were much lower, but after doing some more research, I really want to the extra 40 horsepower and figured some of the kinks have been addressed with this new engine. My preferred setup would be a 2012, black on black with P2 package and AMG trim/sports package. I am working several angles to buy this car and have a friend look for one from the Manheim auctions. I usually drive my cars 10+ years so finding the right one is key.

I would like to ask all you enthusiasts and experts on this board what to look out for on this specific model. What maintenance and what type of issues you have experienced and what the cost of ownership is. I definitely plan on getting an extended warranty, but want to make sure certain issues have been addressed. My budget will allow me to purchase a car in the 50k mile range, so I know it should at least have one transmission service under the belt. Any other things to look out for, I would love to get more info on. I am excited to be on the hunt, but I want to make sure I don't end up being disappointed not looking for the right things.

Thanks

rediesel

I like my distronic and lighting packages. Active seat is nice too.

Check out the Mercedes CPO finder looks like there are ~61 W212 wagons for sale in the USA currently.

http://www.mypreownedmercedes.com/us...ist/ve5us0p81o

I like this one
http://www.mypreownedmercedes.com/us...hh8jb9ca611207



Good luck with your hunt!

rg0115

I have run across that one, seem a bit high. Nicely equipped but I am no a big fan of the two tone interior. With 4 year old boys I really prefer all black. What does the lighting package include?

rediesel

Lighting was part of P2 in 2012. It has HID's that turn as you turn and adaptive highbeams that automatically adjust in several steps depending on traffic and road conditions. Here is the 2012 dealer ordering guide. I can see 4 year olds being hard on an interior. The two tone does keeps the usual wear area black (floor, bottom of seats), but I suspect children in boosters can scuff up the back of the fronts seats a bit too.

rg0115

Rediesel, this is awesome information. Thank you so much. I heard somewhere that a true sport only comes in 2-tone interior, is that correct or can I get a all black interior with a Sport trim? Do 2012 have an AMG trim package, or is that just the wheel package? Thanks again, this will become very useful.

DerekACS

2012-2013 W212 Wagons with AMG sport package were available with Black Artico or Black leather interior. The AMG package included body trim and 18" twin five spoke alloys. It might be difficult to locate a wagon with leather, but so much nicer IMO. Good luck with your hunt !

rg0115

Great thanks Derek. what about any known issues to look out for. What should a 50K car have done maintenance wise, besides Tranny service and new breaks? Are their own issues with these cars to keep an eye on?