k4lpcm

Hi all,

I'm contemplating the purchase of a 2000-2001 S430. This would be my first MB and I'd like to get some general opinions on the reliability and standard maintenance costs. I do well for myself, but I'm surely not wealthy... so affordability is a concern. I am amazed by the large numbers of S430s in the 2000-2001 model years that are available for sub $30k prices. Just curious if the maintenance will overcome my initial excitement about the low purchase price. Any and all input is greately welcome!

Thanks,
Eric

Mark_K

I would not own one of these vehicles without an extended warranty.

ex-BenzDriver9

I agree with Mark on this one. The cars are awesome, but if something goes, be prepared to sign over your children, your house, and possibly have your wages garnished. Ok, it's not that bad, but these cars are not cheap to fix or service, and the reliability on them is on the poor side.

Mine is an 01 and thank God for the Starmark warranty because I would be out thousands of dollars.

Good luck in your decision!

newton22

What they said.

I see people getting excited over S-classes in the $20k range all the time. They end up buying them and when they can't afford to maintain them, they just leave it as the way they are. There are many w220 S-classes on the road abused and neglected.

k4lpcm

Hi guys,

Thanks for the input... that's exactly what I needed to hear. Are there any other reasonably sized MB sedans that aren't as frightening in the maintenance department? Horror stories have led me away from my first choice (BMW 745Li) and it seems the same thing may happen with the S-class. It's so hard to decide... I love these big toys far too much

What is a good warranty for a 50-60k mile S430 going to cost me?

Thanks again,
Eric

newton22

Anywhere from $17k-$28k probably.

If you are very concerned with reliability, look into Lexus. To me, Lexus' are boring luxury appliances.

IluvS500

17-28k for a warranty....? dont you mean for the car?

Oxygen

That's awesome. I like that. Luxury Appliances... nothing more.

Lender1

You put that very well, they are boring cars with no heritage or personality. As to our friend looking for S 430 advise. Try, if your budget can handle it, at least a 2003 with an extended warrenty. They have the model midlife refreshening.

newton22

Ever driven a Lexus? If cars could talk, the Lexus would be the kind of car that kisses up to the owner.

"Oh look at me, I'm perfect and I never break down. I'm nice like my Euro competitors at an affordable price!"

The Benz on the other hand...

"I do whatever the eff I want. Keep that pocket change, cuz you'll need it when I decide to take a crap."

A car has to have attitude don't it?

Oxygen

Yes yes, it does.

I have a very extensive set of tools and a subscription to MB StarTek, I can pretty much fix/diagnose anything on the car except things that require SDS/DAS, which is like 50% of the car...

Mark_K

If you can still get an extened warranty on a 60K mile car......you will pay around 3 - 4 thousand.

HLG600

So you're implying the vehicle should control the driver, not the other way around?

I absolutely love Mercedes Benz, but I also give Lexus credit. The majority of their buyers are sensible, conservative individuals who are in search of a smooth hassle-free automobile. Mercedes has to regain that. Going back a decade, no LS could even be in the same breath as a W140 S Class. Now, they are going head to head. While Mercedes declined in automobile reliability, Lexus immensely improved their features and vehicles.

As for the S Class, I would stay away from the earlier models. Due to the massive technological jump from the W140 to the W220, there were numerous flaws in the first production year models; I am speaking from first hand experience on this one. What you should look for is a MY2003 4Matic equipped S Class - I absolutely love the car. All the features and updates, very well priced, and can handle anything from blinding rain to ice/snow. With one of those, you can enjoy the S for the wonderful automobile it is, and not worry much about dealerships killing you with repair costs. Either that, or get a W140 S600.

newton22

Well, that's the way mine is at least.

Gotta discipline her though. ESP off and beat her a bit. She'll learn.