I just bought a beautiful 2000 S500 with 82K miles.


I have some concerns though. What is the normal temp I should see on the temp gauge? Mine shows 90-95degrees. However, I think it maybe running hot. If I put my hand on the front fender or hood approx. 12" behind the radiator it's almost too hot to touch.
It looks like the oil has not been changed in years!!! Lots of sludge when I opened the oil cap. First thing I had done was an oil change and the mechanic showed me a filter that was in 3 pieces and disintegrated. I want to do an oil flush but would like some advice before doing it.


Also want to do a radiator flush and tranny flush. Any do and don'ts??


can you please help as I love this car!!

 

Welcome to the forum Flash. If I were you before even considering doing any work on the car I would read the encyclopedia where it says "new owners start here". The documentation is well put together and you will find tons of very useful information that will prove to be invaluable.

 

90-95 is normal temp

Lots of ppl have had problems doing a coolant flush , I would only have a mb dealer do it . They usually don't charge too much. Too easy to get air bubbles in the cooling system and result in overheating

You should simply drop the trans pan and change the fluid and filter. Dont just get a tranny "flush" because A flush stirs up the particles in the Pan if it hasnt been cleaned. You can get a flush if you want after you clean out the pan

 

sludge is normal in mb's

 

The normal running temp for your car approaches 195 - 200 deg F. For most people, 140 - 150 deg F is where pain starts when you touch the surface. It is normal for the hood and fenders to get very hot to the touch.