If you've seen this month's R&T, you know there's an owner survey on the 1996-2001 E-series. The article is generally positive on the cars: approximately 90% of those responding (128 responses) had no problems with their cars, came to appreciate the performance as much as MB engineering, and would buy another. The cost of service was a significant complaint area, however.<br> <br> The number of people who responded struck me as low, although R&T thought it was a good response. I'm curious whether MBNZ readers have similar views. Specifically, do you think the performance of the V-6's (3.2 engines) is 'good,'<br> or merely 'adequate'? Is the reliability of the mechanical (engine, transmission, chassis) what you expected? Problem areas? If you've owned more than one, do you think the 2000s and 2001s are as good, better or worse than your others? Thanks.
I have a 2001 E320 and I absolutely love my car; I have not had any problems and have not gone back to the dealer for any repairs or service. Note though that I have only had my E for 10 months and have driven it less than 1200 miles.<br>
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Performance wise, I feel it is great for a 3.2 six; I'm out of the Ricky Racer stage but more performance is available with a 430 or the 500.<br>
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Everything about my E lives up to my expectations and I would purchase another M-B product...<br>
With only 1200 miles on a 10 month old car, I'm not sure your impressions are quite that valid... just yet. <br>
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I've got a 97 E420 with 61K on the clock. Runs like a bat out of hell with the big V8, but maintenance is very expensive. An oil change at the dealer usually runs about $100 by the time they change some fluids, a wiper blade, etc. <br>
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Dead battery cost $250 to replace. Sunroof got busted... that was $1200 using refurbished parts from the dealer. Xenon went... that's a $950 part. Analog phone can't be upgraded to digital.. priceless.<br>
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Yes, it's an awesome car that runs smooth as silk at 45mph and 120mph, but it's not for the financially-challenged.<br>
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have 2000 e-wagon with about 25k miles and so far it has given me two problems (the cupholder door wouldn't latch and there was a rubbing noise in the steering wheel when making left turn with blinker on).. both were fixed under warranty.
When my cupholder door doesn't latch, I do two things. First I think,'Why didn't I buy a chevy with mega-cupholders,' (kidding). <br>
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More importantly, I then reach in to slide a small lever that is near the hinge. It moves less than half an inch but allows the lock to engage.<br>
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I hope this helps.
When my cupholder door doesn't latch, I do two things. First I think,'Why didn't I buy a chevy with mega-cupholders,' (kidding). <br>
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More importantly, I then reach in to slide a small lever that is near the hinge. It moves less than half an inch but allows the lock to engage.<br>
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I hope this helps.
Could you post a picture of the latch you are referring too?