Which 7 seater SUV?
#26
Out of the gate, I don’t really focus on MPG - more on the best car for my needs.
We actually liked the XC90 - nice fresh, airy interior and didn’t seem too much smaller when we parked it next to our GL. End of the day my wife didn’t want to drive a Volvo and I didn’t want a 4 pot sewing machine engine.
Can’t comment on the MDX. If you want reliability with some luxury go Lexus - don’t they have a new 7 seater RX coming out but prob smaller than a GL.
On the need to use the third row, my answer would be based on how often do you need to do that?
You said you have a forward and rear facing car seat - how long until the fwd facing kid is in a booster as they are easier to move. As mentioned above you won’t be able to put the car seats on the outboard middle row seats and access the back. There are 2 options you could consider that we did:
1. Put the car seats next to each other (ie one in the middle). If your kids are that small maybe they won’t mess with each other too much. Then your rear seat passengers can access the rear through the single flip up seat or only one goes back there with the other sitting next to the car seats.. And it’s really not that hard to step up and get back there.
2. Keep the car seats on the outboard seats and have Nanna ride in the middle and either your wife or pops hops in through the back with the power rear seats split. Sounds funny, but we did it for infrequent use and my wife liked the peace and quiet back there.
Or just buy a minivan - but there was no way my wife was going to drive one.
On CarMax - we bought a Cayenne and got the 5 year Maxcare Warranty. I’ve used the warranty at a Porsche dealer and it was seamless with minimal deductible out of pocket. I would highly recommend it when buying any expensive German car that is out of Warranty - and I get to drive it for 5yrs / 100,000 miles worry free!
Also on CarMax they tend to not value options when pricing their cars - more just year and miles, so that’s how you can pick up a great bargain on a highly optioned car. Just run the VIN through a decoder like datamb.com. Also to pay a minimal fee to get a car transported to you really opens up your options rather than just a local market. Do a FaceTime walk around where the car is located, decode the VIN and if you like what you see pay $149-$400 across the country to get it transported to you. If you don’t like it, walk away.
This may not be helpful as dated, or may be helpful as you’re looking at used cars - but here were some of my thoughts when figuring whether to buy a GL550 a couple of years ago. I had a GL450 before that:
https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...ml#post6526410
Best of luck!
We actually liked the XC90 - nice fresh, airy interior and didn’t seem too much smaller when we parked it next to our GL. End of the day my wife didn’t want to drive a Volvo and I didn’t want a 4 pot sewing machine engine.
Can’t comment on the MDX. If you want reliability with some luxury go Lexus - don’t they have a new 7 seater RX coming out but prob smaller than a GL.
On the need to use the third row, my answer would be based on how often do you need to do that?
You said you have a forward and rear facing car seat - how long until the fwd facing kid is in a booster as they are easier to move. As mentioned above you won’t be able to put the car seats on the outboard middle row seats and access the back. There are 2 options you could consider that we did:
1. Put the car seats next to each other (ie one in the middle). If your kids are that small maybe they won’t mess with each other too much. Then your rear seat passengers can access the rear through the single flip up seat or only one goes back there with the other sitting next to the car seats.. And it’s really not that hard to step up and get back there.
2. Keep the car seats on the outboard seats and have Nanna ride in the middle and either your wife or pops hops in through the back with the power rear seats split. Sounds funny, but we did it for infrequent use and my wife liked the peace and quiet back there.
Or just buy a minivan - but there was no way my wife was going to drive one.
On CarMax - we bought a Cayenne and got the 5 year Maxcare Warranty. I’ve used the warranty at a Porsche dealer and it was seamless with minimal deductible out of pocket. I would highly recommend it when buying any expensive German car that is out of Warranty - and I get to drive it for 5yrs / 100,000 miles worry free!
Also on CarMax they tend to not value options when pricing their cars - more just year and miles, so that’s how you can pick up a great bargain on a highly optioned car. Just run the VIN through a decoder like datamb.com. Also to pay a minimal fee to get a car transported to you really opens up your options rather than just a local market. Do a FaceTime walk around where the car is located, decode the VIN and if you like what you see pay $149-$400 across the country to get it transported to you. If you don’t like it, walk away.
This may not be helpful as dated, or may be helpful as you’re looking at used cars - but here were some of my thoughts when figuring whether to buy a GL550 a couple of years ago. I had a GL450 before that:
https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...ml#post6526410
Best of luck!
Last edited by Dalema; 11-19-2017 at 01:49 PM.
#27
Senior Member
Note: Today I drove with 6 humans in my GL. Granny and I in the front seats, mommie and infant (rear facing child seat, passenger side) in the 2nd row, and niece (in college) and 5 yr old (front facing child seat, passenger side) in the 3rd row for a Home Depot, grocery and Costco run.
I use the 60, of the 60/40 split seating in the 2nd row, for egress. I do have the one touch 2nd row seats.
I use the 60, of the 60/40 split seating in the 2nd row, for egress. I do have the one touch 2nd row seats.
Out of the gate, I don’t really focus on MPG - more on the best car for my needs.
We actually liked the XC90 - nice fresh, airy interior and didn’t seem too much smaller when we parked it next to our GL. End of the day my wife didn’t want to drive a Volvo and I didn’t want a 4 pot sewing machine engine.
Can’t comment on the MDX. If you want reliability with some luxury go Lexus - don’t they have a new 7 seater RX coming out but prob smaller than a GL.
On the need to use the third row, my answer would be based on how often do you need to do that?
You said you have a forward and rear facing car seat - how long until the fwd facing kid is in a booster as they are easier to move. As mentioned above you won’t be able to put the car seats on the outboard middle row seats and access the back. There are 2 options you could consider that we did:
1. Put the car seats next to each other (ie one in the middle). If your kids are that small maybe they won’t mess with each other too much. Then your rear seat passengers can access the rear through the single flip up seat or only one goes back there with the other sitting next to the car seats.. And it’s really not that hard to step up and get back there.
2. Keep the car seats on the outboard seats and have Nanna ride in the middle and either your wife or pops hops in through the back with the power rear seats split. Sounds funny, but we did it for infrequent use and my wife liked the peace and quiet back there.
Or just buy a minivan - but there was no way my wife was going to drive one.
On CarMax - we bought a Cayenne and got the 5 year Maxcare Warranty. I’ve used the warranty at a Porsche dealer and it was seamless with minimal deductible out of pocket. I would highly recommend it when buying any expensive German car that is out of Warranty - and I get to drive it for 5yrs / 100,000 miles worry free!
Also on CarMax they tend to not value options when pricing their cars - more just year and miles, so that’s how you can pick up a great bargain on a highly optioned car. Just run the VIN through a decoder like datamb.com. Also to pay a minimal fee to get a car transported to you really opens up your options rather than just a local market. Do a FaceTime walk around where the car is located, decode the VIN and if you like what you see pay $149-$400 across the country to get it transported to you. If you don’t like it, walk away.
This may not be helpful as dated, or may be helpful as you’re looking at used cars - but here were some of my thoughts when figuring whether to buy a GL550 a couple of years ago. I had a GL450 before that:
https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...ml#post6526410
Best of luck!
We actually liked the XC90 - nice fresh, airy interior and didn’t seem too much smaller when we parked it next to our GL. End of the day my wife didn’t want to drive a Volvo and I didn’t want a 4 pot sewing machine engine.
Can’t comment on the MDX. If you want reliability with some luxury go Lexus - don’t they have a new 7 seater RX coming out but prob smaller than a GL.
On the need to use the third row, my answer would be based on how often do you need to do that?
You said you have a forward and rear facing car seat - how long until the fwd facing kid is in a booster as they are easier to move. As mentioned above you won’t be able to put the car seats on the outboard middle row seats and access the back. There are 2 options you could consider that we did:
1. Put the car seats next to each other (ie one in the middle). If your kids are that small maybe they won’t mess with each other too much. Then your rear seat passengers can access the rear through the single flip up seat or only one goes back there with the other sitting next to the car seats.. And it’s really not that hard to step up and get back there.
2. Keep the car seats on the outboard seats and have Nanna ride in the middle and either your wife or pops hops in through the back with the power rear seats split. Sounds funny, but we did it for infrequent use and my wife liked the peace and quiet back there.
Or just buy a minivan - but there was no way my wife was going to drive one.
On CarMax - we bought a Cayenne and got the 5 year Maxcare Warranty. I’ve used the warranty at a Porsche dealer and it was seamless with minimal deductible out of pocket. I would highly recommend it when buying any expensive German car that is out of Warranty - and I get to drive it for 5yrs / 100,000 miles worry free!
Also on CarMax they tend to not value options when pricing their cars - more just year and miles, so that’s how you can pick up a great bargain on a highly optioned car. Just run the VIN through a decoder like datamb.com. Also to pay a minimal fee to get a car transported to you really opens up your options rather than just a local market. Do a FaceTime walk around where the car is located, decode the VIN and if you like what you see pay $149-$400 across the country to get it transported to you. If you don’t like it, walk away.
This may not be helpful as dated, or may be helpful as you’re looking at used cars - but here were some of my thoughts when figuring whether to buy a GL550 a couple of years ago. I had a GL450 before that:
https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...ml#post6526410
Best of luck!
Last edited by DC-BENZ; 11-19-2017 at 06:53 PM.
#28
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Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: Maryland
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2014 GL350, 2015 Tesla Model S, '74 Citroen DS23 Pallas IE
If you keep cars for a while, a Tesla model X may not be a bad idea - base model with very few options or a used one.. I think people can go in the third row without folding the second row seats.
I tend to keep cars for a while and I have 47200 miles on my Model S. Went to the repair facility at about 35000 because they called me and said they haven't seen me or the car since the day I bought it - do I mind bringing it in for just a look-see.. maybe change brake fluid. I took it in.. they changed brake fluid, cleaned brakes, changed cabin air filter, and recommended I think about changing the tires. Those tires were never rotated - wore very evenly. I got the tires changed at 39,000 - wearing very evenly still.
Liberating in a way that I don't have to think about oil changes, transmission fluid, DPF, Adblue, etc.. only if money was no object..
Just looking at practical side of things..
I tend to keep cars for a while and I have 47200 miles on my Model S. Went to the repair facility at about 35000 because they called me and said they haven't seen me or the car since the day I bought it - do I mind bringing it in for just a look-see.. maybe change brake fluid. I took it in.. they changed brake fluid, cleaned brakes, changed cabin air filter, and recommended I think about changing the tires. Those tires were never rotated - wore very evenly. I got the tires changed at 39,000 - wearing very evenly still.
Liberating in a way that I don't have to think about oil changes, transmission fluid, DPF, Adblue, etc.. only if money was no object..
Just looking at practical side of things..
#29
Hi all,
In the market for a 7 seater SUV. Here are the ones that I am considering
1. GL450 (CPO)
2. MDX (New)
3. XC90 ( new, probably lease)
We will be using it everyday around the city, a few highway miles, grocery shopping (costco) etc. I need to be able to put two child seats in the second row, front and rear facing and grandparents in the 3rd row for occasional trips to mall, restaurants, or even a 2-3 hours trip.
I do like the Gl450 on how it looks, and was thinking of CPO for price you get a lot of car. However, my concern which cannot be resolved with a test drive is, who doe sit fare as a daily driver, in mall parkings, parking garage etc? does it feel sluggish? does it start to feel heavy instead of being nimble? merging into traffic etc?
Also, how easy is it to access 3rd row when with child car seats installed on the outset seats? I had read somewhere that the headrests cannot be taken out? is this true?
Lastly, what concerns should I have buying a CPO? I see that the CPO warranty is only 1 year. How long have you guys kept your cars? do you keep it out of warranty?
regular maintenance? does it cost a lot? insurance - does it cost a lot?
Now the other two cars, MDX is reliable, and has many safety features and options and is decently priced for a new car, has 3rd row, but i don't think adults can sit longer than 30 min ride, something to consider, and its not a benz.
XC90 - looks great, inside and out, but reliability is a question and can't see myself spending $60,000 for a volvo.
I am really having a hard time figuring out which car to get?
What are the must have options that i should look for in a CPO GL450?
Do any of you have any of these 2 cars, what are your thoughts?
In the market for a 7 seater SUV. Here are the ones that I am considering
1. GL450 (CPO)
2. MDX (New)
3. XC90 ( new, probably lease)
We will be using it everyday around the city, a few highway miles, grocery shopping (costco) etc. I need to be able to put two child seats in the second row, front and rear facing and grandparents in the 3rd row for occasional trips to mall, restaurants, or even a 2-3 hours trip.
I do like the Gl450 on how it looks, and was thinking of CPO for price you get a lot of car. However, my concern which cannot be resolved with a test drive is, who doe sit fare as a daily driver, in mall parkings, parking garage etc? does it feel sluggish? does it start to feel heavy instead of being nimble? merging into traffic etc?
Also, how easy is it to access 3rd row when with child car seats installed on the outset seats? I had read somewhere that the headrests cannot be taken out? is this true?
Lastly, what concerns should I have buying a CPO? I see that the CPO warranty is only 1 year. How long have you guys kept your cars? do you keep it out of warranty?
regular maintenance? does it cost a lot? insurance - does it cost a lot?
Now the other two cars, MDX is reliable, and has many safety features and options and is decently priced for a new car, has 3rd row, but i don't think adults can sit longer than 30 min ride, something to consider, and its not a benz.
XC90 - looks great, inside and out, but reliability is a question and can't see myself spending $60,000 for a volvo.
I am really having a hard time figuring out which car to get?
What are the must have options that i should look for in a CPO GL450?
Do any of you have any of these 2 cars, what are your thoughts?
If you seek out a GL with the following option your decision is made: Power EASY-ENTRY for 2nd row seats. Option Code 843. You'll know the car has it if there is a button on the top of the second row seat as below.
This is a confusing option for consumers and dealers alike because all GLs have a power folding 2nd row. In my car, as in most GLs, there is no EASY-ENTRY feature. So to get in the 3rd row you have to lift a lever on the 2nd row seat bottom then pull up on a red handle that then folds the whole seat up with some power assistance and moves the front seat forward a bit automatically. Its a luxurious power assisted process and much easier than most 3rd row SUVs, but the feature I'm talking about goes a step further. With Power Easy-Entry, all you do it lift 1 button and the car does the rest.
With grandparents in the 3rd row, I'd say your decision is made. The GLs third row is the most spacious of all three and the easiest to access with the feature mentioned. Its also a larger vehicle than the other two. Just extend the warranty as far as possible.
Good luck
DRP
Last edited by BigJob13; 11-20-2017 at 09:06 AM.
#30
Agree the Easy Entry makes it very easy to get into the third row. We have it on our 550. I do want to note for you the issue with those seats when using a booster or for small kids that was on some of the older models (I don’t know about the newer ones). Ours is a 2015 and needed a fix.
Basically with the power seat, the headrest is powered and differed from the non-powered one in that at its normal upright position, it sticks out, which can make it hard for fitting that forward facing car seat / booster or can push against a small kids head.
There is a fix which means taking out the locking pin and takes about 15 minutes that I did for one of my seats. Again, maybe they fixed this on the newer models. I’ll try to find a link to the post, but just so you are aware.
Edit: here’s the link. https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...drest-fix.html
Basically with the power seat, the headrest is powered and differed from the non-powered one in that at its normal upright position, it sticks out, which can make it hard for fitting that forward facing car seat / booster or can push against a small kids head.
There is a fix which means taking out the locking pin and takes about 15 minutes that I did for one of my seats. Again, maybe they fixed this on the newer models. I’ll try to find a link to the post, but just so you are aware.
Edit: here’s the link. https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...drest-fix.html
So nice in this world when a decision can be made concisely to end deliberations....
If you seek out a GL with the following option your decision is made: Power EASY-ENTRY for 2nd row seats. Option Code 843. You'll know the car has it if there is a button on the top of the second row seat as below.
This is a confusing option for consumers and dealers alike because all GLs have a power folding 2nd row. In my car, as in most GLs, there is no EASY-ENTRY feature. So to get in the 3rd row you have to lift a lever on the 2nd row seat bottom then pull up on a red handle that then folds the whole seat up with some power assistance and moves the front seat forward a bit automatically. Its a luxurious power assisted process and much easier than most 3rd row SUVs, but the feature I'm talking about goes a step further. With Power Easy-Entry, all you do it lift 1 button and the car does the rest.
With grandparents in the 3rd row, I'd say your decision is made. The GLs third row is the most spacious of all three and the easiest to access with the feature mentioned. Its also a larger vehicle than the other two. Just extend the warranty as far as possible.
Good luck
DRP
If you seek out a GL with the following option your decision is made: Power EASY-ENTRY for 2nd row seats. Option Code 843. You'll know the car has it if there is a button on the top of the second row seat as below.
This is a confusing option for consumers and dealers alike because all GLs have a power folding 2nd row. In my car, as in most GLs, there is no EASY-ENTRY feature. So to get in the 3rd row you have to lift a lever on the 2nd row seat bottom then pull up on a red handle that then folds the whole seat up with some power assistance and moves the front seat forward a bit automatically. Its a luxurious power assisted process and much easier than most 3rd row SUVs, but the feature I'm talking about goes a step further. With Power Easy-Entry, all you do it lift 1 button and the car does the rest.
With grandparents in the 3rd row, I'd say your decision is made. The GLs third row is the most spacious of all three and the easiest to access with the feature mentioned. Its also a larger vehicle than the other two. Just extend the warranty as far as possible.
Good luck
DRP
Last edited by Dalema; 11-20-2017 at 10:52 AM.
#31
Thank you all for all the great suggestions, I will definitely search carmax and the extended warranty that you guys suggested. My local dealer has 3 Gl450 all sold date of 11/14 except for one which is 2/15, but priced at around $49000-$51,000. None of them have the exterior color I want and don't have lifting package, he did say that it can be installed by third party, can it be done and who much? will it void warranty?
Tesla Model X sounds tempting, as I am a gadget guy and love new stuff, but its too expensive for me. I love the look of the GL/GLS, but wish they would have made it truly a S class level. The reason I keep coming back to the Gl is the price of a CPO get you a lot of car.
Tesla Model X sounds tempting, as I am a gadget guy and love new stuff, but its too expensive for me. I love the look of the GL/GLS, but wish they would have made it truly a S class level. The reason I keep coming back to the Gl is the price of a CPO get you a lot of car.
#32
Senior Member
My 2015 GL 350 just turned 3 years old and 52,500 miles. Love the diesel! Plenty of power and it has a nearly 700 mile range. Great over the road vehicle and it's a vault when considering safety attributes. And diesel is much cheaper than premium gas. It's my first diesel and I'm gonna keep it until the Germans sort out the diesel gate issues and start selling them again in the USA. Right now only BMW has a diesel variant (X5) which is a great vehicle but a bit small compared to the others. I'd also recommend you look at the Audi Q7. It's newly designed for 2017 and already I see some CPO's out there. The MDX is a good choice but I'm not enamored with the Japanese brand. A CPO Lexus GX might be worth considering. Forget the Volvo! Nothing but trouble.
Of all the choices I'd look for a CPO GL 350 (preferred) or GL 450 and model year 2015 or newer. A CPO (2015) can be had for mid to high $40's.
Just curious.........why have you not considered a Tahoe or Yukon?
Of all the choices I'd look for a CPO GL 350 (preferred) or GL 450 and model year 2015 or newer. A CPO (2015) can be had for mid to high $40's.
Just curious.........why have you not considered a Tahoe or Yukon?
Last edited by anothercar; 11-21-2017 at 05:30 PM.
#34
I just went to another dealer and he has three GL's CPO. Out of the three one does not have the options I am looking for the other one is diesel so did not look at that, and to my surprise I test drove the Gl550, it the color combinations and has all the options I am looking for except power easy entry, however, with manual lever handle, it wasn't that bad. Its a 2015 CPO with 48,000 miles and is listed for $58,000 ( too high for me), is its high considering its GL550. The CPO warranty ends 5/2020 and I can extend the warranty until 2022. He said there is very little negotiation as they price it to the market, bs I guess.
Anyways, there was also an Audi dealer close by, so decided to test drive the Q7, to get a back to back drive feel. The Q7, felt very quick and it was very nimble, very car like, I liked it a lot. When driving the GL550, it had plenty pf power and was ready to go when you set on the gas, but you do kinda feel the size, with the Q7 this wasn't the case, you don't feel you are driving a 7 seater, plus the interior is updated and modern with lots of gadgets ( like gadgets and shiny things)
The one thing that I felt thought with the GL550 was how nice the ride was, it soaked up all the bumps etc and its hard to describe just felt relaxed in it. The Q7 was more sporty, if I can say that for an SUV.
I have to now try the child seats and see who they fit into both of these cars and then see what I want to do.
Anyways, there was also an Audi dealer close by, so decided to test drive the Q7, to get a back to back drive feel. The Q7, felt very quick and it was very nimble, very car like, I liked it a lot. When driving the GL550, it had plenty pf power and was ready to go when you set on the gas, but you do kinda feel the size, with the Q7 this wasn't the case, you don't feel you are driving a 7 seater, plus the interior is updated and modern with lots of gadgets ( like gadgets and shiny things)
The one thing that I felt thought with the GL550 was how nice the ride was, it soaked up all the bumps etc and its hard to describe just felt relaxed in it. The Q7 was more sporty, if I can say that for an SUV.
I have to now try the child seats and see who they fit into both of these cars and then see what I want to do.
#36
Senior Member
The Q7 is nice, I haven't ridden in the most recent version but a friend of mine has the previous Gen in the TDI format. The 3rd row was really small almost like having a 3rd row in a Nissa Pathfinder.
I just went to another dealer and he has three GL's CPO. Out of the three one does not have the options I am looking for the other one is diesel so did not look at that, and to my surprise I test drove the Gl550, it the color combinations and has all the options I am looking for except power easy entry, however, with manual lever handle, it wasn't that bad. Its a 2015 CPO with 48,000 miles and is listed for $58,000 ( too high for me), is its high considering its GL550. The CPO warranty ends 5/2020 and I can extend the warranty until 2022. He said there is very little negotiation as they price it to the market, bs I guess.
Anyways, there was also an Audi dealer close by, so decided to test drive the Q7, to get a back to back drive feel. The Q7, felt very quick and it was very nimble, very car like, I liked it a lot. When driving the GL550, it had plenty pf power and was ready to go when you set on the gas, but you do kinda feel the size, with the Q7 this wasn't the case, you don't feel you are driving a 7 seater, plus the interior is updated and modern with lots of gadgets ( like gadgets and shiny things)
The one thing that I felt thought with the GL550 was how nice the ride was, it soaked up all the bumps etc and its hard to describe just felt relaxed in it. The Q7 was more sporty, if I can say that for an SUV.
I have to now try the child seats and see who they fit into both of these cars and then see what I want to do.
Anyways, there was also an Audi dealer close by, so decided to test drive the Q7, to get a back to back drive feel. The Q7, felt very quick and it was very nimble, very car like, I liked it a lot. When driving the GL550, it had plenty pf power and was ready to go when you set on the gas, but you do kinda feel the size, with the Q7 this wasn't the case, you don't feel you are driving a 7 seater, plus the interior is updated and modern with lots of gadgets ( like gadgets and shiny things)
The one thing that I felt thought with the GL550 was how nice the ride was, it soaked up all the bumps etc and its hard to describe just felt relaxed in it. The Q7 was more sporty, if I can say that for an SUV.
I have to now try the child seats and see who they fit into both of these cars and then see what I want to do.
#37
Have you looked at the Infini QX80? Their CPO prices are pretty good. We had a 2008 GL450 for several years with a LOT of repairs. Not something to keep without a warranty in my opinion, though I know some people have had good luck with them.
#38
So I just came back from local dealer, they have a 2015 GL450 with all the options expect the panorama moonroof, it even has leather seats in brown which looked really nice. Original MSRP was $83,000, was listed for $51,900 CPO.
I think its a bit high, I still have until Monday to decide, but is this a good price? miles were 33,000, CPO warranty will be over 11/2019.
They are not really negotiating the price, wife and I liked the ride and space, but still thinking if I should go with the more sporty Q7?
Also, what would be a good price on this car, $48,000 is it fair?
I think its a bit high, I still have until Monday to decide, but is this a good price? miles were 33,000, CPO warranty will be over 11/2019.
They are not really negotiating the price, wife and I liked the ride and space, but still thinking if I should go with the more sporty Q7?
Also, what would be a good price on this car, $48,000 is it fair?
#39
51k seems like a fair price to me. I don't think your dealer will negotiate down to 48k. When I was looking for the GL this summer what I found was that the dealers would only negotiate in hundreds ($500) not thousands. As I'm sure you have realized, these SUVs are not easy to find used, with all the options you want. I believe leather alone is 3k upgrade over MBTex. I would pay this price
#40
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: TX
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2014 ML350 2w, 2017 GLS550, 1967 Pontiac GTO 4 sp
51k seems like a fair price to me. I don't think your dealer will negotiate down to 48k. When I was looking for the GL this summer what I found was that the dealers would only negotiate in hundreds ($500) not thousands. As I'm sure you have realized, these SUVs are not easy to find used, with all the options you want. I believe leather alone is 3k upgrade over MBTex. I would pay this price
#41
I am going to try and see if they will come down any lower, their doc fees is high too at $380.
What about extended warranty, should I buy it from them? can i buy it later and whats the lowest price I can get the 2 year extended warranty for?
How would I know it CPO certified? will they give me any paper work?
He said they will shop for financing and try to get the lowest rate for 60-72 months, should I get my own financing? he said that I will have 5 days to get my own financing if their rates are too high? will my credit get 2 enquiries or will it be 1 enquiry?
they did say the headrest can be removed after a technician looked at it, but I was able to put the child seat and the top part goes under it, so for now I will be ok, will need to remove it in a couple of years?
Anything else I should know before I make this big (for me) purchase? getting a bit nervous buying an german car and maintenance of what it would be. Will have to look at independent mechanic, but I doubt there are that many in my area.
What about extended warranty, should I buy it from them? can i buy it later and whats the lowest price I can get the 2 year extended warranty for?
How would I know it CPO certified? will they give me any paper work?
He said they will shop for financing and try to get the lowest rate for 60-72 months, should I get my own financing? he said that I will have 5 days to get my own financing if their rates are too high? will my credit get 2 enquiries or will it be 1 enquiry?
they did say the headrest can be removed after a technician looked at it, but I was able to put the child seat and the top part goes under it, so for now I will be ok, will need to remove it in a couple of years?
Anything else I should know before I make this big (for me) purchase? getting a bit nervous buying an german car and maintenance of what it would be. Will have to look at independent mechanic, but I doubt there are that many in my area.
#42
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: TX
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125 Posts
2014 ML350 2w, 2017 GLS550, 1967 Pontiac GTO 4 sp
We have 2 '14 CPO's. GL and ML. We bought the ML last year and opted out of the extended CPO warranty. Same this year for the GL. Salesman will tell you they are giving a 15% discount if you buy right away, but only good for 30 days after sale. If you search this forum you will see lots of posts about long distance sales of MB ELW's and CPO extensions (not the same thing). Since we were new to the MB brand we felt we needed to be sure we'd keep the car(s). We are likely to, so as the CPO warranty deadline approaches we'll go extension shopping.
Yes you will get CPO paperwork. When you enter your VIN on Mercedes Me, your CPO warranty will show up.
Can't help with the financing or child seat issues.
The service costs at the dealer are high. No doubt. I used to do my own maintenance but no more. I got the B service done on the ML recently and used an MB competitor's ad to beat down my local dealer. Still very high cost though. But I feel that is the price you pay for a loaner when you need it. You can certainly go to an independent mechanic and save money without jeopardizing your warranty. However, over many years of getting dealer service, the service writers know who spends money with them and who doesn't. So when a needed repair could be classified as not covered by warranty, they usually do cover it. There's a lot of discretion, real or imagined on my part.
One thing on the car that I would look at closely are the running boards. MB's aluminum is crappy. The anodized aluminum trim on my 50 year old GTO looks better than the running boards on the GL and ML. The CPO process says cosmetic repairs will be made. So take a good look at them. If they look bad, tell the dealer you think you should get new ones. Also look at the tires. You can sometimes get new ones thrown in if the ones on the car look worn. Good luck.
Yes you will get CPO paperwork. When you enter your VIN on Mercedes Me, your CPO warranty will show up.
Can't help with the financing or child seat issues.
The service costs at the dealer are high. No doubt. I used to do my own maintenance but no more. I got the B service done on the ML recently and used an MB competitor's ad to beat down my local dealer. Still very high cost though. But I feel that is the price you pay for a loaner when you need it. You can certainly go to an independent mechanic and save money without jeopardizing your warranty. However, over many years of getting dealer service, the service writers know who spends money with them and who doesn't. So when a needed repair could be classified as not covered by warranty, they usually do cover it. There's a lot of discretion, real or imagined on my part.
One thing on the car that I would look at closely are the running boards. MB's aluminum is crappy. The anodized aluminum trim on my 50 year old GTO looks better than the running boards on the GL and ML. The CPO process says cosmetic repairs will be made. So take a good look at them. If they look bad, tell the dealer you think you should get new ones. Also look at the tires. You can sometimes get new ones thrown in if the ones on the car look worn. Good luck.
#43
Not sure what your timeframe is but have you checked out the coverage of the new Subaru Ascent? Due summer 2018. You can get captains chairs for the 2nd row for easy access to the third row.
Yes yes, I know it's more downscale than most vehicles being discussed here.
Yes yes, I know it's more downscale than most vehicles being discussed here.
#44
MBWorld Fanatic!
Fellow gl owner here, but with a x164. We have the maxcare warranty as well with a 200 deductible and we have nothing but praises for the warranty. The service depot loves it, SA loves it and I’m sure the billing dept loves the amount that gets spent at the dealer.
I mean it pays out every time....just last weeek it paid out 1300 for a taillights led that was out and a srs connector that broke...+ all the other gripes and broken things that happen on a gl. Looking at you air suspension!!
the maxcare when we bought it was a 7 year 100k plan. So it covers much longer than the extended warranty! But do get the warranty especially if you’re a diesel owner!!!
I mean it pays out every time....just last weeek it paid out 1300 for a taillights led that was out and a srs connector that broke...+ all the other gripes and broken things that happen on a gl. Looking at you air suspension!!
the maxcare when we bought it was a 7 year 100k plan. So it covers much longer than the extended warranty! But do get the warranty especially if you’re a diesel owner!!!
Found one that was CPO at a local dealer in VA. A year newer about the same mileage - they wanted 10k more for about the same configuration. I tried to negotiate and the sales guy must have called me 10 times.. but still 9.5k more. I didn't think it was worth it. Something to be said about just going in and knowing exactly how much I'm paying - even though I may have paid a little more.
Car is still under warranty, all service history available from the dealer and car fax, and a few hundred bucks to get "152 point inspection" - which the MB dealer in my neighborhood told me I didn't need to unless I really want to get it done after taking a cursory look.
I went for the Maxcare, but I am not sure I will keep it. The customer satisfaction for Maxcare is at 1.5 out of 5. Doug Demuro seems to be the only one really happy with it. I am now researching all the issues that this car has and they are the following:
- Oil cooler seal - The seal has been replaced with a new Viton gasket since ~2012, so not an issue
- DEF heater - may have been replaced with an improve unit, but not sure. Hit or miss with replacement under emissions warranty (8 year/80k). 2.2k if MB replaces it, as low as $350 parts if you want to replace it yourself - I am a pretty good wrench.
MB extended warranty for another 3 years/100k miles after the factory warranty expires, is listed at $4700. I have until April 2018 to think about this. I know a lot of people say it is a mistake to not get an extended warranty on these cars, but I don't really see much that has gone wrong on 2013 and later GL diesels..
Sorry about hijacking this - and this is only my second post! Not a good start...
Car is still under warranty, all service history available from the dealer and car fax, and a few hundred bucks to get "152 point inspection" - which the MB dealer in my neighborhood told me I didn't need to unless I really want to get it done after taking a cursory look.
I went for the Maxcare, but I am not sure I will keep it. The customer satisfaction for Maxcare is at 1.5 out of 5. Doug Demuro seems to be the only one really happy with it. I am now researching all the issues that this car has and they are the following:
- Oil cooler seal - The seal has been replaced with a new Viton gasket since ~2012, so not an issue
- DEF heater - may have been replaced with an improve unit, but not sure. Hit or miss with replacement under emissions warranty (8 year/80k). 2.2k if MB replaces it, as low as $350 parts if you want to replace it yourself - I am a pretty good wrench.
MB extended warranty for another 3 years/100k miles after the factory warranty expires, is listed at $4700. I have until April 2018 to think about this. I know a lot of people say it is a mistake to not get an extended warranty on these cars, but I don't really see much that has gone wrong on 2013 and later GL diesels..
Sorry about hijacking this - and this is only my second post! Not a good start...
#45
Senior Member
Isn't maxcare thru Carmax only?
Fellow gl owner here, but with a x164. We have the maxcare warranty as well with a 200 deductible and we have nothing but praises for the warranty. The service depot loves it, SA loves it and I’m sure the billing dept loves the amount that gets spent at the dealer.
I mean it pays out every time....just last weeek it paid out 1300 for a taillights led that was out and a srs connector that broke...+ all the other gripes and broken things that happen on a gl. Looking at you air suspension!!
the maxcare when we bought it was a 7 year 100k plan. So it covers much longer than the extended warranty! But do get the warranty especially if you’re a diesel owner!!!
I mean it pays out every time....just last weeek it paid out 1300 for a taillights led that was out and a srs connector that broke...+ all the other gripes and broken things that happen on a gl. Looking at you air suspension!!
the maxcare when we bought it was a 7 year 100k plan. So it covers much longer than the extended warranty! But do get the warranty especially if you’re a diesel owner!!!
#46
MBWorld Fanatic!
yes it is.
But I agree with what a fellow forum member posted about his Porsche, Carmax does tend to focus solely on miles and year and a bargain can be found with a well optioned model.
Its how we found our p2 package gl with TVs...
but they are a bit pricier then private market.
But I agree with what a fellow forum member posted about his Porsche, Carmax does tend to focus solely on miles and year and a bargain can be found with a well optioned model.
Its how we found our p2 package gl with TVs...
but they are a bit pricier then private market.