Jasoneo5

Hey all,

New the forum, going to be buying a 03/04 E55 in the next couple weeks and have a few questions that I'm hoping a couple friendly souls here could answer:

1) When's the major timing belt tuneup supposed to be done?
Assuming water pump, belts, idlers, etcc need to be replaced, how much will I be looking at (installed not at a dealership) including parts and labor?

2) What should I look out for visually/mechanically?

3) Are there any common problems or malfunctions with the car later on down the road that I should look out for?

4) Finally, how long can I count on this car to last for, keeping in mind that I drive my cars pretty hard.


I bought a C43 when they first came out, sold that, and am now selling my 04' LS430 for the E55, something a bit more sporty. Can I expect the same Dependability wise with regard to minor engine part malfunctions for the E55 as I do my LS430? (keeping in mind the LS430 has set the bar pretty high with regard to having no problems at all)

Thanks all, and you'll be hearing from me quite often throughout this forum.

-Jason Elcan

Timeless

Search function is your friend. Try searching for the word 'thinking' on the 211 AMG section. Lots of good info there.

Jasoneo5

how long can I count on this thing to last me? Also, couldn't find anything as to when I would need that first major tuneup, and how much that would be. thx

Timeless

It is all based on mileage....so it depends on the mileage the car has when you get it and the service history involved (which any dealer can pull up for you).

You really only need to do basics (oil changes) till the 50K mark and then you might give some serious thought to other fluids (especially if you drive it hard or in serious conditions). Search for 50K service on these forums.

As far as I know, there are several E55s that have eclipsed the 100K mark without any serious problems....however, I would highly suggest getting a 100K extended warranty as repairs can get very expensive.

Hope that helps.

Serenity Now

The airmatic suspension is probably one of the more costly repairs/services you may need. Of the few owners I've met we've all experienced minor issues. Only other repairs done to mine included a radiator replacement under warranty, various electrical gremlins (minor), and the tendancy to need an alignment more frequently than normal cars.
Oh, and the rear tires seem to wear out prematurely.

Do a search for "50k service" or "60k service" and you will find some helpful posts.

jangy

Major tuneup is at 100K and it is hefty.

Jasoneo5

Thanks for the responses guys! I plan on buying one at around 60-65k and running it till 150-160k. I must admit, after reading many posts here I am quite nervous about hidding expenses though. I don't mind stuff like the radiator or IC pump breaking, but I'm hearing problems with lifters, cracked supercharger, bad diff, and that stuff scares me. I think I'm going to go ahead and do it.

Oh and just for clarification, all E55's come with the air suspension, correct? I assume there are aftermarket models for this car as well... right?

Thanks again.

Wryfox

When I did my research on an E55, I found that there are plenty of low mileage 03s and04s out there. This is a luxo car that is sometimes not the primary car in a family that can afford one so I would not target 65k miles. That's right at the end of the "carefree miles" on most cars and certainly this one. Try to find one that is 30-40k and run it to 100k and you'll be much better off. The pricing is all over the place so you'll find a low mile good deal. Definietly go '04 or '05, '03 was first model year.

bobgodd

I noticed my alignment is off already, what is the cause for that??

Vadim @ FD

Here is what I have seen the 55 need:

Oil changes - based upon the FSS. The harder you driver the more frequent they will be.

1. 30K/90K - new coolant, new or clean air filters, check the belts, new SC belt if aftermarket pulley.

2. 60K - 30K plus - new plugs, possibly wires if in humid climate, fuel filter, accessory belt and complete inspection.

bindoy

What's involve in it? How hefty?

Jasoneo5

What do you mean by "carefree miles"? Sorry, I'm just having a hard time getting your point..

Timeless

Carefree=Maintenance Free

cpais

Every 30K I do a trans. service filter and fluid, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, plugs, air filter, cabin filter, oil change and filter. Do the trans every 30 and it should last forever. Don't do it and pay to replace it around 100K

Lexusondubs

some great info here