I love my 2011 E550 and she now has 144k miles and is still covered under the unlimited mileage CPO warranty until November. Knock on wood outside of a major airmatic repair (3 years ago, warranty covered) the car has been trouble free, and my gut instinct is to keep the car and see if we can hit 250k miles someday.

That being said, I would hate to get hit with a massive repair bill out of warranty and I want to be thoughtful about my decision. The resale value is much lower than where I personally value the car, so that's another important factor.

If you were in my shoes what would you be thinking? Thanks in advance for your thoughts...

It can't be worth much at this point. $12-$15K maybe? What can you buy for that little dough that has any of the performance and comfort of an E550? Nothing. Keep it, and deal with any issues that come up, which will probably be minor. If the engine blows then donate it.

Would an extended warranty be available? I'm keeping mine, but I only have 25,000 miles on it. Still I worry about major engine, transmission or electronic (computer) failure. Decided not to get another extended warranty.

Factor $5000 in next three years in potential repairs and it's still better to keep it

airmatic is the big one
trans valve body is the next one

Indy mechanic can keep these costs lower

For me, the picture isn't complete without knowing what car to replace it with. I usually keep my cars until I find myself more excited about the replacement. If you're content enough to not bother looking, then you have your answer.

By the mileage your car book value is around $10000 or less. To trade it in is waste of a good vehicle.


If you like the car keep it and repair as needed. To get a new vehicle at around the same class would drain you $50000 or so. You can fix the current car with a lot less for a long time.

Until you find something that you absolutely must have, you are better off keeping your car. That kind of performance and driving experience will be difficult to match.

Good luck, I say keep it.

I agree with the dudes......sounds like a keeper. Set some money aside if you can for future repairs and keep on driving it! I had a 2011 e550 also.......was a great car.