Hello,
Thanks a lot to everyone for reading this long post.

I have a dilemma on which I would like to have some outside input, realizing that this is a MB forum but still hoping to get an unbiased opinion.

A little bit on our situation:
We got a 2012 RX350 (currently has 90K miles) and 2018 MB GLC 300 (45K miles).

The 2012 RX350 we bought new and used mostly for work. I had to make 8-10 short trips per day, each trip could be from 0.5 to 3-4 miles, often in a stop-and-go traffic (we live in NYC but not in Manhattan).

We did not have any major problems with the RX. I did have ad transmission fluid drained-refilled twice (which replaced just above 2 qts.).
Then had a full transmission service- they removed the pan, replaced the filter and about 5-6 qts. of the fluid. The mechanic/tech who did the service said the magnet inside the transmission fluid pan was covered by metal shavings. He said that while it is normal to have some shavings on that magnet, the one from our RX had more than normal amount. The tech said that the transmission was not in good shape and recommended not to do any more fluid changes.


The 2018 GLC300 was bought as a certified vehicle from a dealer, when at was 3.5 y.o., with about 30K miles on ODO.
The original owner lived in NJ, and I think the GLC was driven mostly on local roads and not in stop-and-go traffic (although I cannot be sure of it), before we got it.

So far, we have not had any problems with the GLC. My wife is using it for work- she makes 7-8-9 short trips, with frequent stops at stop signs and traffic lights, often sits in the vehicle with engine idling.

While I have not had any experience with MB, my past experience with Audi Q5 was not good after it hit 7-8 years. Our Q5 literally started to fall apart: there were multiple problems with suspension, engine leaking oil, rear electric gate quit working, leaking water pump/thermostat, and more...I eventually got rid of the Q5 when it was 12 y.old, and really regret I did not do it earlier…

Therefore, this is the dilemma I am facing: both vehicles need replacing. Which one do I replace first? I am thinking of replacing one of them next summer.

Again, thanks a lot for reading my post and your input.

 

I'd say the Lexus. If it only has 90K miles and the transmission is going "south" according to the mechanic, you have a potential major problem on your hands. If the tranny goes, you have to install a rebuilt one just to keep or get rid of it. I must say that's unusual for a Lexus to have that problem at 90K. I'd hold on to the Mercedes until it becomes unreliable.

 

Ignore the Lexus tech and take the car to another shop and have the transmission oil changed. And keep the car for another 5 years, at least.

Sell the GLC. Its 4 cylinder M274 engine is a time bomb. Cracked pistons await some owners. Sadly, no one know if he or she will end up with a surprise $30k bill for engine replacement.

 

Here he goes again.

Do you get some kind of kick back, every time you make this comment?

 

Not sure how many miles on the Lexus after trany oil change but if there is a good number I would drain a little and send to a lab. Will give some information.
Maybe its ok to keep them both.

 

Dan,
Thanks a lot-I never thought of sending the fluid to a lab.
A quick search shows Blackstone labs, I am sure I can find another one or two labs.

 

Yep. I used them a lot. Good thing is, they send you a pre payed container. Easy to send back.
https://www.blackstone-labs.com/

 

Even if both vehicles are in great shape and will last another 5 years trouble-free, keeping the Lexus is going to be cheaper simply because it's further down the depreciation curve already.

But If you cared about depreciation instead of your driving experience, you wouldn't be buying Lexus & MB... you'd be buying Toyota & Honda.

So the real answer is: sell whichever vehicle you like less.