Buying a Second hand S550 (gotchas, etc...)
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 1
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Jaguar F-type, looking to buy w221 Sclass
Buying a Second hand S550 (gotchas, etc...)
Hey Guys,
I've been looking into getting an 08-10 S550 as a daily driver, as my other 2 cars are 2 seaters.
I'm looking at a few cars in the 90k-110k mile range and about $11k-$13k listed price. They all have clean carfaxes but I know that only tells me half the story. I also know there may be some big repair items (suspension for example), but I feel like I don't know enough to make an educated decision, and thats when your expertise comes in.
What are some things I should look out for when looking at these cars at the lot?
Thanks in advance!
Zauris.
I've been looking into getting an 08-10 S550 as a daily driver, as my other 2 cars are 2 seaters.
I'm looking at a few cars in the 90k-110k mile range and about $11k-$13k listed price. They all have clean carfaxes but I know that only tells me half the story. I also know there may be some big repair items (suspension for example), but I feel like I don't know enough to make an educated decision, and thats when your expertise comes in.
What are some things I should look out for when looking at these cars at the lot?
Thanks in advance!
Zauris.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 2,418
Likes: 400
From: Merkville the galaxy of Stars
'99 CLK/05 E500 WAG
Hey Guys,
I've been looking into getting an 08-10 S550 as a daily driver, as my other 2 cars are 2 seaters.
I'm looking at a few cars in the 90k-110k mile range and about $11k-$13k listed price. They all have clean carfaxes but I know that only tells me half the story. I also know there may be some big repair items (suspension for example), but I feel like I don't know enough to make an educated decision, and thats when your expertise comes in.
What are some things I should look out for when looking at these cars at the lot?
Thanks in advance!
Zauris.
I've been looking into getting an 08-10 S550 as a daily driver, as my other 2 cars are 2 seaters.
I'm looking at a few cars in the 90k-110k mile range and about $11k-$13k listed price. They all have clean carfaxes but I know that only tells me half the story. I also know there may be some big repair items (suspension for example), but I feel like I don't know enough to make an educated decision, and thats when your expertise comes in.
What are some things I should look out for when looking at these cars at the lot?
Thanks in advance!
Zauris.
Repairpal.com
There are others, and this site is excellent for any/all info.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,691
Likes: 4,584
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
The engine is the M273 V8, which has been known to have intake manifold actuator issues. Have a look at that, either via carfax, M-B service history, or via a prepurchase inspection by an independent repair shop.
Air suspension should receive careful inspection.
Air suspension should receive careful inspection.
Super Member
Joined: May 2019
Posts: 671
Likes: 288
From: Omaha, NE
2007 S600
My personal suggestion would be to research the cost of a good quality service agreement (usually referred to as an "extended warranty") that will cover all the parts of your car... including the engine, electronics, suspension, etc... with a low deductible. Prepare yourself for a little bit of sticker shock. Include that in the cost of owning your vehicle. You're very likely going to spend the money one way or the other -- either up front for the service contract, or over time in repair bills.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 520
Likes: 203
From: Scottsdale AZ
2015 SL550 & 2012 S550 4matic
Zauris: I was in the market for 6+ months and recently (October) bought a 2012 W221, loaded (everything but Night view and Driver Assist/Distronic). So far I have no surprises although I will have the motor mounts replaced in the coming months. My checklist was: 1-owner, dealer maintained on schedule, No Accidents, Clean title, I excluded 1st year (2008/9) for known defects, and I wanted the newer engine and its fuel economy. I did not get a warranty $5-7k for 36 months, betting that my low miles per year (3k) will not generate repair bills. I can do most DIY except for jobs needing lifts. There are plenty of these cars around, shop wisely.And keep us posted...
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Joined: Jan 2021
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