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2014 ML350 advices needed.

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Old Sep 16, 2013 | 08:22 PM
  #1  
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2014 ML350 advices needed.

I am seriously considering get my first ML350 this weekend.

However, I am new to MB (more accurately, new to any new car), I really need some good advices here:

1. what options are really important?
2. what issues should I consider during bargain process (maintenance, insurance)?
3. what is the discount off MSRP I would expect for 2014 version (and for 2013)

Thank you in advance.
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Old Sep 16, 2013 | 11:21 PM
  #2  
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I just purchased (haven't even picked up yet) a 2013, and my guesses would be...
1. very personal for you...I wanted Prem 1, Lane Tracking Blind Spot Assist, and KeylessGO for my main set, got a few more because of what was on the lot (happy to have headlight upgrade, ambient light, lit running boards, upgraded sound, just weren't on my *must have* list as I couldn't order a 2013, or get a 2014 for the price I got this one for.)
2. might get them to throw in some prepaid maint., but this is probably dealer specific. My salesperson/dealership didn't want to mix *stuff* with the *car deal*, so that's how we went about it, no add-ons included, just get the car priced...not sure what they would have done, but I was happy with my deal
3. not sure of discounts on 2014s right now, probably not huge as they're so new, I think on 2013s you can pull 10-12% in a lot of places as they're reducing inventory. Just a guess though, every market is different
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 03:56 PM
  #3  
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Originally Posted by tom.butt
I just purchased (haven't even picked up yet) a 2013, and my guesses would be...
1. very personal for you...I wanted Prem 1, Lane Tracking Blind Spot Assist, and KeylessGO for my main set, got a few more because of what was on the lot (happy to have headlight upgrade, ambient light, lit running boards, upgraded sound, just weren't on my *must have* list as I couldn't order a 2013, or get a 2014 for the price I got this one for.)
2. might get them to throw in some prepaid maint., but this is probably dealer specific. My salesperson/dealership didn't want to mix *stuff* with the *car deal*, so that's how we went about it, no add-ons included, just get the car priced...not sure what they would have done, but I was happy with my deal
3. not sure of discounts on 2014s right now, probably not huge as they're so new, I think on 2013s you can pull 10-12% in a lot of places as they're reducing inventory. Just a guess though, every market is different
Thank you very much for your information.

Actually, my personal main set is exactly the same as yours. However, I doubt 2013 model has such version around my area any more. So if I go with 2013, I have to live on with what I can get.

Do you mind tell me your MSRP and the price Drive-out post-TTL? Message, please.

What I have been thinking about is to get a 2013 with a good set or I will go with 2014.

Thanks again.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 03:57 PM
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2014 ML350 BlueTEC
I just ordered 2014 ML350 BlueTec this weekend.

1. I think this is very individual, but everyone seems to agree that Lighting Package is a must. P1 also makes a lot of sense. Play with the car on MBUSA and look at all the options they offer. One thing that doesn't show up on the site that I ordered was MB-Tex wrapped dash which is a special order option.

2. I declined all the extra options dealer offered and will be buying an extended warranty from another dealer that you can find on this board -- search for extended warranty.

3. I was able to get 8.5% under MSRP on the order for 2014, without any incentives — I'm pretty happy with that number. There are a lot of programs out there (Fleet, USAA) that give additional deals, but I didn't have any available to me.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 06:35 PM
  #5  
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Originally Posted by DR2000
3. I was able to get 8.5% under MSRP on the order for 2014, without any incentives — I'm pretty happy with that number. There are a lot of programs out there (Fleet, USAA) that give additional deals, but I didn't have any available to me.
Congrats on your new ML order! I am also from NY, Would you mind sharing what dealer you went to? Thanks!
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 06:40 PM
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2014 ML350 BlueTEC
I went to MB of Brooklyn and Diana was the person who helped us get the car we wanted.

This is my first non-American car, my first non-sedan car and my first diesel. I don't know how I'm going to survive waiting for it for 3 months though.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 06:46 PM
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Originally Posted by DR2000
I went to MB of Brooklyn and Diana was the person who helped us get the car we wanted.

This is my first non-American car, my first non-sedan car and my first diesel. I don't know how I'm going to survive waiting for it for 3 months though.
Thanks a lot I really appreciate it!
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:10 PM
  #8  
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Originally Posted by DR2000
I just ordered 2014 ML350 BlueTec this weekend.

1. I think this is very individual, but everyone seems to agree that Lighting Package is a must. P1 also makes a lot of sense. Play with the car on MBUSA and look at all the options they offer. One thing that doesn't show up on the site that I ordered was MB-Tex wrapped dash which is a special order option.

2. I declined all the extra options dealer offered and will be buying an extended warranty from another dealer that you can find on this board -- search for extended warranty.

3. I was able to get 8.5% under MSRP on the order for 2014, without any incentives — I'm pretty happy with that number. There are a lot of programs out there (Fleet, USAA) that give additional deals, but I didn't have any available to me.
Big Congs on your new order!

The price and extended warranty information are really helpful for me.

Hope I can get similar offer around Harford/Boston area.

Thank you very much!
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:12 PM
  #9  
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@DR2000: By the way, I have seen many people prefer BlueTec.

Is there an obvious reason you chose so?
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:14 PM
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From: Brooklyn, NY
2014 ML350 BlueTEC
From what I read here it seems that NYC and SoCal areas are the biggest competitive markets in the country, therefore if you work for it you can find a good deal.

— Daniel
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:19 PM
  #11  
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Originally Posted by TinCT
@DR2000: By the way, I have seen many people prefer BlueTec.

Is there an obvious reason you chose so?
I think different people have different reasons. I have two: I'm used to big American V8s and their torque and I didn't want to give it up. Diesel certainly offers a lot of that.

Second big reason is that I commute 300+ miles per week and I'm looking to save some money with much better MPG that diesel offers.

The price difference for BlueTec car is not as much as it originally appears, since 4Matic is included with it, while it is not with a base model.

— Daniel
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:33 PM
  #12  
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2014 ML350 4Matic, 2009 C300, 2008 E350 4Matic, 2007 C230
I picked up my fully loaded, special order 2014 ML350 in July and couldn't be happier. You should seriously consider getting the driver's assist package, Parktronics, 4Matic, 20" wheels [makes it look so much better], Harmon/Kardon sound system, Keyless-GO, and leather for sure. I opted for almost all of the options, 5-year service plan, wheel plan, door dings protection plan, mbrace.... the list goes on and on. If you are affiliated with the military, get the USAA pricing - you can't go wrong. I got a great deal. Picked up my vehicle in the DC area for less than a similarly equipped 2013 in my area. I certainly didn't mind the 2 hour drive to pick it up. The 2 month wait for my special order sucked, but now that I have it, it was all worth it. The technology is amazing but can get a bit overwhelming at times. I will be more than happy to put you in touch with my dealer. Boston isn't too far from DC. I'm sure he will offer you a great deal. For the price we pay for these vehicles, every bit helps.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:36 PM
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Originally Posted by DR2000
I think different people have different reasons. I have two: I'm used to big American V8s and their torque and I didn't want to give it up. Diesel certainly offers a lot of that.

Second big reason is that I commute 300+ miles per week and I'm looking to save some money with much better MPG that diesel offers.

The price difference for BlueTec car is not as much as it originally appears, since 4Matic is included with it, while it is not with a base model.

— Daniel
I see.

Well, one more thing about extended warranty. I can get the warranty from any dealer from anywhere, right? (I mean, no limits on the state my driver license belongs to).
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 08:39 PM
  #14  
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ML 350 Bluetec
Originally Posted by TinCT
@DR2000: By the way, I have seen many people prefer BlueTec.

Is there an obvious reason you chose so?
I have the Bluetec and got it for numerous reasons.

First, I like the idea of using less fuel (but let's be honest...it's really not about saving money if you're buying a Mercedes, so that's more of an environmental thing).

Second, I didn't need the V8 or want to pay the extra $9k for it, but i found the 350 Gas torque curve was at a higher RPM level than I like to drive. The BlueTec torque comes on at low revs, so you don't have to wind up the engine to get moving.

Third, I thought I might tow something in the future, and the diesel just does that better.

After driving it for 4 months. I like all those things (except haven't towed anything yet)....but...the best thing is how long you can go before you have to fill up the tank. I've gone over 600 miles before refilling.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 09:05 PM
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Originally Posted by 340z
I have the Bluetec and got it for numerous reasons.

First, I like the idea of using less fuel (but let's be honest...it's really not about saving money if you're buying a Mercedes, so that's more of an environmental thing).

Second, I didn't need the V8 or want to pay the extra $9k for it, but i found the 350 Gas torque curve was at a higher RPM level than I like to drive. The BlueTec torque comes on at low revs, so you don't have to wind up the engine to get moving.

Third, I thought I might tow something in the future, and the diesel just does that better.

After driving it for 4 months. I like all those things (except haven't towed anything yet)....but...the best thing is how long you can go before you have to fill up the tank. I've gone over 600 miles before refilling.
Thank you so much for this information

The only thing I am worried about is the big noise from diesel engine.

You guys really make the blueTec version very attempting to me.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 09:40 PM
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Originally Posted by TinCT
Thank you so much for this information

The only thing I am worried about is the big noise from diesel engine.

You guys really make the blueTec version very attempting to me.
The noise really is not an issue. It's only slightly louder than the v8. Outside the car (or with the windows down) at idle you can barely tell its a diesel - just a little rattle. There is a little more rattle at the beginning of acceleration, but that is about it. With the windows up, you'll hardly notice any of that in the cabin.

The 350BT is nothing like older Mercedes diesel or say a Ford or Chevy pickup.

I'd suggest you take a long test drive in both the v6 gas and the bluetec. Drive them in the city. Drive them on the freeway. Test acceleration for passing in both scenarios.

Either of them are very good, and I would have been happy with either in the end. I'm just a little bit happier with the Diesel.

One other point. The Diesel is 4matic, so you might want to drive a gas rear wheel drive, gas 4matic and the bluetec 4matic to see if you also prefer the way 4matic vs 2wd handles. Another judgement call to make...but nice to be in a position to have to decide...
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 10:07 PM
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Originally Posted by TinCT
I see.

Well, one more thing about extended warranty. I can get the warranty from any dealer from anywhere, right? (I mean, no limits on the state my driver license belongs to).
It can be purchased from any dealer in the country within the first 30 days of getting a car. After 30 days you have to pay 15% on top of it.

As far as the noise from diesel — you have to listen to it yourself. It is different, but it's not what diesels used to be. From inside I couldn't hear the difference at all.

Last edited by DR2000; Sep 17, 2013 at 10:31 PM.
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Old Sep 17, 2013 | 11:22 PM
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I ordered a bluetec last month after a good test drive. My wife and I like to take road trips, and sometimes tow my motorcycles to the track. Diesel is much better for that. Also, a lot longer time between fill ups, and better reasale value. It will save money in the long run if you buy your own adblue. I saw the adblue tonight on sale at O'rielly's for $5.99 a gallon. Also, it's so quiet it's more quiet on the inside than a lot of gasoline powered cars.
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Old Sep 18, 2013 | 12:02 AM
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ML350 Bluetec
Anxiously awaiting delivery

Ordered my 2014 350 ML Bluetec Dakota Brown in late August. Projected delivery mid-October...can't wait. Where can I obtain painted door side-mouldings? Don't want chrome.
Am I correct in understanding that an extended warranty will be priced differently by different dealers? What should I expect to pay for add'l 5 years 100,000?
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Old Sep 18, 2013 | 11:39 AM
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I have owned this vehicle since it was new. I has been a great vehicle for years. The drive train has been very reliable except for Low Speed Gear Box engagement. The engine and transmission have been very reliable (those are the German built parts).

The truck bumper covers are cheap brittle materials and will crack easily. The interior is a pillar materials and visors adhesives will not hold up over time. I already will have to replace a second set of A pillar covers after replacing to years ago, and baby it ain't inexpensive.

A year ago had trouble with the ignition system at the key. The dealership completely missed the diagnoses 3 times. They finally put a voltmeter to the ignition switch and found a drop in voltage.

I will not buy another US built or any other country built MB product. Strictly German product only. The GLK is German built.

By the way, ask the local tow truck drivers what they mostly tow when an accident is not involved. They have some interesting insight.

Last edited by ehop50; Sep 18, 2013 at 11:42 AM.
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Old Sep 22, 2013 | 12:12 AM
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Hi Guys

Thank you very much for your help. I am close to get my new 2014.


Thanks again.

Last edited by TinCT; Sep 22, 2013 at 12:49 AM.
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Old Sep 22, 2013 | 12:48 AM
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Originally Posted by DR2000
I think different people have different reasons. I have two: I'm used to big American V8s and their torque and I didn't want to give it up. Diesel certainly offers a lot of that.

Second big reason is that I commute 300+ miles per week and I'm looking to save some money with much better MPG that diesel offers.

The price difference for BlueTec car is not as much as it originally appears, since 4Matic is included with it, while it is not with a base model.

— Daniel

Hi Daniel, I went to a dealer today, just one thing I am not quite sure:

They give me 5 years maintenance for $2000, is this a decent price?
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Old Sep 22, 2013 | 07:59 PM
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ML350 Bluetec
I'd say $2,000 is a good price....a 5 year maintenance program is quoted as $2,869 on the M-B factory website.
Don't forget though, the cost of "fluids" is not included. Brake fluid and coolant are somewhat expensive and not included in the service contract. Nor is transmission fluid should you need it drained and replaced in the 5 years...costs hundreds of dollars.

Has anyone purchased extended warranty?....what price?
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Old Sep 22, 2013 | 10:26 PM
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Originally Posted by sjgking
I'd say $2,000 is a good price....a 5 year maintenance program is quoted as $2,869 on the M-B factory website.
Don't forget though, the cost of "fluids" is not included. Brake fluid and coolant are somewhat expensive and not included in the service contract. Nor is transmission fluid should you need it drained and replaced in the 5 years...costs hundreds of dollars.

Has anyone purchased extended warranty?....what price?

but when I went to the website, the price is about $1680 for 5 years, they are different?
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Old Sep 22, 2013 | 10:29 PM
  #25  
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Originally Posted by sjgking
I'd say $2,000 is a good price....a 5 year maintenance program is quoted as $2,869 on the M-B factory website.
Don't forget though, the cost of "fluids" is not included. Brake fluid and coolant are somewhat expensive and not included in the service contract. Nor is transmission fluid should you need it drained and replaced in the 5 years...costs hundreds of dollars.

Has anyone purchased extended warranty?....what price?

According to my experience here, you just search the term and will find some good deals on extended warranty.
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