Gadgetguy

I've been on this forum trying to soak up as much information as possible. I've found a lot of good useful information. Tomorrow I will be taking the leap into the Benz world and flying out to buy an S550 and drive it about 10 hours back home. I'm nervous and excited all at the same time. It seems like now that I've pretty much committed to buying one, that's all I see, but before I rarely saw them. I've seen the carfax on the car and it's clean, no accidents, good maintenance records and even the camshaft position sensor was replaced a few years ago, which I read was a problem on the 07's. I've also check that the VIN and it's outside the range of the timing chain issues.

My question to everyone would be, is there anything else I need to look for when I go to get it tomorrow that may be a warning sign of hidden or future issues?

Thanks in advance.

mistertonyn

If you can stretch a little more go for an 08 or newer that would be even better. I started looking at 07 but thought it would be a little more safer with an 08.

T.H.Carrera

sounds like he is already committed ... get extended warranty for sure ... the air suspension is a MONEY PIT.

Gadgetguy

I wanted to get an 08, but for the price I was looking to spend, the mileage was higher than I wanted. I was debating weather it was worth going with a higher mile 08 trying my luck with an 07 after hearing there are some 07's out there with no issues.

Gadgetguy

I haven't signed any paperwork yet, but I did buy a one way ticket to go get it. I guess have to do more research on the air suspension. I was looking at getting an extended warranty through my bank but wasn't sure if it would be worth it. What do you think about the companies that offer warranties for a monthly fee, sort of like insurance, but for mechanical issues?

T.H.Carrera

IMHO the only warranty worth it is the original from MB, all these after market ones are more or less a scam.

Gadgetguy

I wonder if I would be able to purchase an extended warranty from a nearby Benz dealership? T.H., how often have you had issues with you air suspension or have you just read a lot about that issue?

T.H.Carrera

I have not encountered them but read about them. Call MB dealership, give them VIN and ask if they can offer MB warranty or not.

Gadgetguy

I definitely will do that in the morning before I leave. I was reading a lil bit about the issues with the compressor. I'm buying a 4matic, do you know if the problem is across all 07 S550's? ...I'm trying to feel better about this decision. Sometimes when you find cars like this with low miles, you hope that it isn't because the car has been in the shop most of the time and undriveable.

carsnob

Don't worry. You're getting a great car. The price (I'm guessing) is half or less the original, yet the car (except for the mileage) is the original. No different than when it was new, for the most part.
It'll drive amazing and you'll love it. Worst case scenario is in a year or two you sell it and take a small hit.

So enjoy and watch the speeding as it's easy to 100 mph and not even feel it.

Gadgetguy

Thanks Carsnob! I needed to hear that! I dang near talked myself out of going to get it. I'm gonna keep positive thoughts like that as I fly out in the morning and drive it back. I'll keep everyone posted on how it goes.

malahhaor

Airmatic is not as much of an issue as it used to be, i would not worry too much. Do get an extended warranty just make sure it covers all the major items such as entire engine tranny and suspension. Asking a dealer for an honest answer is a long shot but see what warranties they do repairs with to see if they pay decently.
My dad got a extended warranty from Benz dealer that will pay w/o sending an inspector and will work with any mom and pop repair shop. so that gives you just a little of a comfy feel.
Just make sure you read all the fine print on that warranty and good luck and enjoy the car. I know i am.

platt-deutsch

I bought a 2007 S550 with 40,000 miles. I have never had even one issue with it and am at 90,000 miles now.. Only time it was back to the dealer was for Telematics update and that was great! and it was free! I do all my own maintance so far.. I even changed the tranny and torque conv. fluid..

metsfan1975

I just did the same thing. Bought a 2007 S550 with 50k miles. I wouldn't of bought it without an extended warranty. It's nice to have that peace of mind when I am driving my S550.

The Godfather

I had a Chrysler extended warranty on my E55 AMG. Plenty of discussion about it on the forums, do a search. They are great and definitely not a scam like a poster stated above.

JDoggery

hmm, S Class in your future?

The Godfather

haha yep, Tuesday hopefully. It's getting some warranty work done tomorrow and then it's mine