Hello everyone, traded in my 2010 E350 for a 2008 S550 this past weekend. I was reading some old post and new ones and see that people have varying opinions about the car. I plan on keeping the car for 5 years because I have two sons that I have to put through college. What advice can anyone give me regarding maintenance? I've read quite a few post regarding depreciation but I'm willing to live with it because I like Mercedes. I'm a person that believes a well designed car doesn't get old, but more distinguished looking after time.

 

Change the oil more frequently; 8k range. Change the ATF every now and then perhaps every 20k. Watch out for failing engine mounts and replace them before they do. Don't flog the car. Don't run it through autowashes

 

I had my speed fix when I owned my vette. What's the deal with the engine mounts? How will I know when they go bad? Also you suggest washing the car by hand? What issue have occurred sending it through the car wash?

 

I found out my mounts went bad when I felt some weird vibrations.Usually you can feel it through the steering wheel. I have went to car washes w/no problems. Just be careful on them older car washes,because the brushes used is hard and it will scratch up your car.

 

Seems like engine mounts start going out @ about 50k so its something to watch out for. If they did go out you would notice a very noticeable vibration but its best to catch it before that. From my experience they cost $280 for a pair.

In terms of the car wash issue I know the w220 had issues with water intrusion which messed with electronics for some people. I haven't heard of anything on the w221 forums like this so far but given the amount of electronics in the w221 I would avoid the high pressure car washes. But you can ignore that if you aren't paranoid about that type of thing.

 

Does the extended warranty cover this issue? Also regarding driving the car fast once in a blue moon. Is it not suggested to drive the car hard. Not talking NASCAR but fast on the interstate for a short amount of time.

 

Congrats on my new ride. My friend just traded his small C63 for an 09 S550 also.

 

I'm tall also I wasn't impressed with the E350's power and handling. I had the sport package and when I drove over a pebble, I felt it! I will try to post some pictures this weekend.

 

I meant that 0-60 runs at 100% throttle might not be a good idea considering how fragile the transmission/valve body seems to be. High speed with smooth acceleration should be no problem at all.