2001 S600 - Is ANYBODY a happy owner?

[renaissance_warrior]

0-60, your loss of a minimal deposit would be a small price to pay to avoid an imminent debtors prison. You are not committed to anything that is a part of a Lemon Law settlement, and I would search this as a totally legal and robust withdrawal method. There is a reason that $125,000 cars of those particular models and years sell for about 15% of their value in less than 10 years. They make a boat look like a solid investment. It is the market speaking, and loudly. Run away.

[ifari]

Originally Posted by 0 to 60

Thanks for some optimism ifari, I needed that!
Do you know anything about changing that filter from a 10 micron filter to a 3 micron filter?
I read a post from somebody about that.
Any ideas if that will help?

I hear you 0 to 60. Keep your hopes alive
I found myself in a similar situation when I was looking for a 215 CL, but BENZWORLD helps alot!
There was an exceptionally beautiful 01 CL600 that was priced under $30k that once caught my eye, but I learned by following this forum that perhaps a 500 would be the better buy/car.

I soon found a CL500 in Obsidian Blk with Java interior and I got so pumped up that I immediately deposited $1k with the intention to return in 7 days and pay off the rest and take the car home.
3 days later however when I was doing further 215 research online I came across an ad for an other CL500, same year, same color combo, BUT, this car was half the mileage, in immaculate condition and a few Gs more according to the ad, so I decided to check it out.

They weren't BS'ing!

LONG STORY SHORT........I ate the G note on the first car and instead got a better, exceptionally beautiful low miles example of a car I desired for a few Gs more. It was IMO a good deal.

Re: The filter; it is an easy change. Look for the reservoir with the filter and ABC dipstick on the drivers side under the hood. Unscrew the filter, loosen the clamp holding the hose and change out. I myself think that the ABC fluid level is of extreme importance and so try to keep it topped up always to prevent problems.

The best thing I can suggest to you though is call a Mercedes-Benz dealer and order/buy the MB STAR SERVICE Manual Library DVD (220/215).
I have one and IMO it is a must-have resource for any MBZ owner. The $100 DVD contains all maintenance and repair procedures, all technical service bulletins, all component functions and locations with diagrams and photos, all DTB bulletins, and all MBZ techs use it too.
It allows me to weed out nefarious mechanics/garages and makes my dealership visits more pleasant and less mysterious because now I know exactly what could be/go wrong and how to get it fixed right.

The rest is up to you.

[zarko]

i have an 01 s600 with no problems " knocking on wood " and love it to death
75K miles.

[renaissance_warrior]

zarko, nice to know! You probably dont have relays made in Turkey.

[ssonss1]

Originally Posted by zarko

i have an 01 s600 with no problems " knocking on wood " and love it to death
75K miles.

Just curious, how long have you had the car for? Since new? My car was flawless for two years of ownership when I got it in 04. After two years it was an endless $ pit.

[Bishen]

Don't do it! I have a 1997 S600 with 120k, a 2001 S600 with 71k, and a 2001 S600 with 17k.. I have spent less money maintaining the 1997 than I have on the S600 with 17k. The cars drive great when they're not misfiring or when something else goes bad, but keeping them in proper shape is a costly job. They are constantly in the shop for so many mechanical issues, I could never recommend them to anyone. I'd suggest going for either a 2003+ S600 or if you're looking for 2000-2003 go for a S55 or S500.

[JohanSL]

Still no happy S600 owner?
I'm getting worried - only had mine for two months now so its too early to say anything. Mine is the TT which everybody says is better but I don't see any owner of one commenting here!

[ifari]

It seems the forum appeals mostly to those who have had problems and are looking for solutions. If you use that criteria, then it is good that no 600 owners are here complaining.

[dreamline]

I actually am very happy with my '01 S600. I've had it for 5 years and have about 84k on it. I've had the ABC pump and lines replaced for about $3.3k and the the oil cooler done for about $4.5k and the CD changer died a horrible death as well, but that's about it. I know it's disappointing, especially that Mercedes Benz is a bunch of sissies who don't stand behind their product.
I love the sinuous good looks of the car, it's very fast, very comfortable and it has very capable handling due to the ABC...and I get 24 mpg on the at 80 mph on the freeway (it shuts down half the cylinders at hiway speeds). I thought about getting another Benz, but I really like this car and plan to keep it.

[JohanSL]

Originally Posted by dreamline

I actually am very happy with my '01 S600. I've had it for 5 years and have about 84k on it. I've had the ABC pump and lines replaced for about $3.3k and the the oil cooler done for about $4.5k and the CD changer died a horrible death as well, but that's about it. I know it's disappointing, especially that Mercedes Benz is a bunch of sissies who don't stand behind their product.
I love the sinuous good looks of the car, it's very fast, very comfortable and it has very capable handling due to the ABC...and I get 24 mpg on the at 80 mph on the freeway (it shuts down half the cylinders at hi-way speeds). I thought about getting another Benz, but I really like this car and plan to keep it.

I like your attitude, I think spending $8k in 5 years on a $100k car is totally acceptable. These cars are definitely worth it.