(Relatively) Common Issues for the W210

[gregs210]

Hey, folks.

A frequently-asked question is (in essence) "hey, I just found a 210, should I buy it?" Quite often these questions come from those who are not familiar with MB and indeed, this might be their first MB. So I thought it might be useful to put together a laundry list of issues that are relatively common -- or at least things that should be carefully examined, preferably by someone who knows what they are doing.

I'm sure I've missed something, so feel free to add to the list, but remember the idea is to include things that several folks have seen, not just one or two.

If this works well we'll add it to the "tips and tricks" sticky.

**** * **** * **** * **** * **** * **** * **** * **** * **** * **** * ****

AT gasket, mileage w/o changing filter/fluid
Catalytic Converters (noisy)
Console Pixels
Corrosion in rear seat pan (battery)
Differential Oil Leak
Groaning/Moaning Steering
Harmonic Balancer (recall)
Motor Mounts
Rear Bulb sockets
Rear Main Seal (V8)
Rear Window Regulators
Rust at exhaust hangers
Rust - Body
Seat Heater elements
Sensor, CPS
Sensor, MAF
Sensor, O2
Serpentine Belt Tensioner
Spring Perches (non 4-Matic sedans)
Sunroof

And of course it's important to have maintenance records reflecting regular fluid changes with proper fluids

[Matt L]

Difference in temperature between the center vents with the AC running
Faulty volume control on the radio head unit
Dash cracks

[JOE55]

...more with part numbers....

Steering Rack - TSB

Brake Lamp Switch - very common (Part # 001-545-6409)

Auxilary Fan Module - (Part # 025-545-32-32 (For E55)

02 Sensor - (Error Code - P0141 = REAR 02 Sensor Part #: 000-540-81-17)

PRESERVE DOOR FRAME = MB OPEN SERVICE CAMPAIGN 200503005 for W203 / W210 Models (RECALL)

Seat Belt - Squick

If we can put the part numbers as well that would be great.

-JOE55

[gregs210]

Originally Posted by JOE55

...more with part numbers....

Steering Rack - TSB

Brake Lamp Switch - very common (Part # 001-545-6409)

Auxilary Fan Module - (Part # 025-545-32-32 (For E55)

02 Sensor - (Error Code - P0141 = REAR 02 Sensor Part #: 000-540-81-17)

PRESERVE DOOR FRAME = MB OPEN SERVICE CAMPAIGN 200503005 for W203 / W210 Models (RECALL)

Seat Belt - Squick

If we can put the part numbers as well that would be great.

-JOE55

Well, actually, I was thinking of more of a checklist for inspecting, not general repairs/fixes...

[JOE55]

Originally Posted by gregs210

Well, actually, I was thinking of more of a checklist for inspecting, not general repairs/fixes...

I see, then ignore the part numbers then..

[JOE55]

...plus you're going to sort-it-out later for the list right greg =)

[johnamoss]

I'd add the steering column sleeve that rotates with the turn signal & cruise control stalks.

[ohlord]

Inspect BEFORE buying...........
Priceless
ohlord
"GOT CODES?"

[JOE55]

^^Good Tip!

[Kajtek1]

Mine pre-2000 W210 never had most of that stuff installed. Maybe splitting it on different years would make more sense. Why should I worry about pixels on car, that doesn't have the display?
Some might add muffler shine