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Opinions on this high mileage S550

14K views 14 replies 5 participants last post by  Benz.1 
#1 ·
Hello everyone,

My name is Dan. I've been a member here for a few years, but mostly read the W210 posts. This is my first post in the W221 forums. I needed some opinions on an S550.

I wouldn't consider myself looking for a new car, as I still like mine, but about a week ago I saw a 2007 S550 for sale in what appears to be perfect condition. They're asking $15,000 from a used car dealer. The place has been around for quite some time and seems reputable enough. Here's the catch...the car has 143,000 miles. HOWEVER, when I saw this car in person it literally does look like a new car inside and out. I've seen S classes with 50,000 miles with way more wear. According to the Carfax, it was 1 owner, and the owner type was corporate. What I get from that is corporate could mean anything. It seems like whoever had it took great care of it, and I mean GREAT. Car is black with tan interior, has sport package, night vision, panoramic roof (dealer says the roof does not work, says he didn't really look into it which is part of the reason the price is low), has rear seat package (heated/cooled?/power rear seats), navigation, backup camera. Basically just about everything. Doesn't have 4matic, but I look at that as a plus because it's one less complication.

My main question is how are these cars (assuming they are well maintained) once you reach mileage over 120,000? I realize any car can be a gamble, but it's been a bit hard to find info on reliability at this mileage for the W221. I wanted some of your opinions. I've read a bunch of threads here so far, but wanted something a bit more personalized. Airmatic seems to be the the biggest potential issue on these cars. I've had my 02 E320 from 92,000 miles to 128,000 currently and the only issue I've really had was the alternator going twice. Everything else has been mostly worn suspension parts (ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, shocks, ect), fluid/filter changes, and the air pump for the door locks broke (have not fixed this yet). I realize this is a different animal, but I just wanted general dependebility as far as big things are concerned. I would expect some electronics to go at some point down the road, but was wondering how the mechanicals held up. I would definitely get a warranty, but would like to know if you guys think these cars still run good at this mileage. Any things to look out for? Airmatic would be my biggest concern. However, I am not super familiar with other weak spots on this car. Also would like to know what your opinions are on the price, based on what you know from this post.

Anyway, here is the service history. Looks like it was all done at an MB dealer.

All opinions are greatly appreciated.

-Dan



05/14/2007
US Customs
Vehicle exported from Germany
and imported to
Baltimore, MD

05/22/2007 11
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle sold

05/22/2007
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Vehicle purchase reported
Titled or registered as
corporate vehicle

05/30/2007
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Title or registration issued
First owner reported

03/21/2008 13,025
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Oil and filter changed
Emissions or safety inspection performed

05/15/2008
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

08/12/2008 20,963
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted

11/12/2008 25,767
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Front turn signal/parking bulb(s) replaced
Oil and filter changed
Tire condition and pressure checked

03/13/2009 31,545
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Emissions or safety inspection performed

04/02/2009 32,463
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Stabilizer bar replaced
Tie rod end(s) replaced
Two wheel alignment performed

05/18/2009
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

07/15/2009 38,712
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Brake fluid flushed/changed
Brakes checked
Oil and filter changed
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted

11/23/2009 44,707
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Computer reprogrammed
Computer(s) checked
Engine/powertrain computer/module checked

11/25/2009 44,985
Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria
Arlington, VA
703-525-2100
Drivability/performance checked
Transmission checked

12/05/2009
Mercedes-Benz of Arlington
Arlington, VA
703-525-2100
Drivability/performance checked

12/14/2009 45,046
Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria
Alexandria, VA
703-341-2100
Transmission checked

12/21/2009 46,157
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed

01/22/2010 46,776
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted
Windshield replaced

03/25/2010 50,087
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Air filter replaced
Antifreeze/coolant checked
Antifreeze/coolant flushed/changed
Spark plug(s) replaced
Emissions or safety inspection performed

05/19/2010
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

05/25/2010
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

07/01/2010
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

07/23/2010 57,058
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Axles checked
Noise checked
Steering/suspension lubricated

08/12/2010 57,680
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Axles checked
Noise checked
Stabilizer bar replaced
Steering/suspension lubricated

10/29/2010 59,751
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Computer(s) checked

02/09/2011 63,742
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Maintenance inspection completed
Light bulb(s) replaced

05/19/2011
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

07/15/2011
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

10/18/2011 75,856
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted

11/14/2011 76,717
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

11/23/2011 77,154
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

12/22/2011 78,636
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Thermostat replaced

02/17/2012 80,612
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Emissions or safety inspection performed

05/17/2012 85,110
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

05/18/2012
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

06/20/2012 86,481
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

08/10/2012 88,531
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

04/15/2013
Virginia
Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

04/16/2013 97,306
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Front brake pads replaced
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted
Emissions or safety inspection performed

07/26/2013 102,406
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

08/20/2013 102,837
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

09/17/2013 104,630
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

04/16/2014 111,900
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

06/11/2014 114,587
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

09/05/2014 117,151
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

12/17/2014 122,092
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Tire(s) replaced
Two tires balanced
Two tires mounted

03/30/2015 124,409
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

05/05/2015
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

05/27/2015 126,336
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Antifreeze/coolant checked
Antifreeze/coolant flushed/changed
Brake fluid flushed/changed

06/11/2015 126,822
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

07/27/2015 128,191
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

01/30/2016 134,435
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Tire(s) replaced

03/24/2016 136,067
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

05/09/2016
Virginia Motor Vehicle Dept.
Chesapeake, VA
Registration issued or renewed

05/11/2016 138,607
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

06/18/2016 139,832
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle serviced

07/20/2016 140,513
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Drive belt tensioner replaced

09/02/2016 142,144
Charles Barker Mercedes
Virginia Beach, VA
757-499-3771
Vehicle offered for sale

09/12/2016 142,635
Auto Auction Pennsylvania
Listed as a dealer vehicle
Vehicle sold at auction
 
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#2 ·
Airmatic seems to be your biggest concern - true, due to the mileage on the car. I had the compressor & relay replaced on my W220 at around 50,000mi. You seem familiar with the car but one “weak spot” you must be concerned is the transmission issues on this car. :wink

The NHTSA reports that the transmission failure of the 2007 S550 by category is the worst reported complaint in recent years. :( Not to discourage you into acquiring this car, but the service history you posted only indicated “transmission checked” twice when the car has about 45,000mi. There was no mention of any transmission service at all, not unless I missed it.:| I would ask the seller about this. Oh, and the airmatic too.
 
#3 ·
Thanks for the reply, Coddger.

I am a bit familiar with this car, only because I've wanted one for some time now. And from reading forums here and there. I was a bit disappointed to see that it appears nothing airmatic related was replaced. I did look at the individual struts and saw no tears in the dust covers. They looked to be in good shape. The owner said it rides good and doesn't sag at all, so that's good. He did say there was a slight squeak he would hear once in awhile while going over some bumps. Said he wasn't sure exactly what it was, but his mechanic told him it probably wasn't a big deal. Might be a bushing that's started to wear. Seems like the ride isn't affected.

As for the transmission, I have read a few things here and there about some flaws that could be on the earlier models. I just didn't see enough complaints myself to research it more. I didn't realize it was such a big complaint. I too was concerned about the "transmission checked" part of the Carfax. Who knows what that means? Part of me thinks that if the car has made it this far, it's probably ok. And it could've possibly had the fluid changed under one of the "vehicle serviced" remarks. I wish they were more detailed. Seems like they started off detailed and then got lazy, maybe the place changed owners or technicians. There is no way almost nothing was replaced from 80,000 miles to 140,000. Anyway, my W210 was on original fluid (as far as I know) until I first changed it around 95,000 miles and shifts great. I'm thinking with this S class, a fluid/filter change and possibly a bottle of Lubegard would be first on the list. That and a nice warranty, just in case.

I'm still not sure if I'll end up getting it or not. It's mostly because I don't need it. My W210 runs just fine. It's just that price seems too good to pass up for such a well kept W221, even with the mileage. And I wouldn't mind having something a bit newer, just not sure if it would be a better idea to wait and get something with less miles down the road. I'll have some thinking to do.

Thanks again for your help!
 
#4 · (Edited)
The car you are considering seems to have received superior service - and it is beautifully equipped! It has a wonderful options package.

There has been some attention devoted to the suspension components on that car, but one could expect wear and tear on ball joints and related steering and front-end suspension components on ANY high-mileage car, especially as they approach the 100K mile mark. The joints or bushings in non-airmatic portions of the suspension could easily be causing the squeak, and one could expect the need for replacement of some of these components. They are not terribly expensive.

Any car will also require periodic replacement of load-bearing suspension components, whether shocks & springs, pneumatic suspensions, or the Mercedes computer-controlled hydraulic ABC system. Three observations: The fact that none of your Airmatic components seem to have been changed is itself testament to how much the design has improved from its original use in the S-Class and E-Class. We do not seem to have nearly as many problems, for example, as the 2000-2003 W220. The second observation: The car does have a lot of miles, and the likelihood of Airmatic problems is greater than on a car with fewer miles, especially because those components have never been replaced. Third: Arnott Industries has brought the cost of Airmatic components down markedly (and I have read, but cannot verify, that MB also incorporated strut improvements originally put in place by Arnott, leading to fewer failures in the OE MB equipment). One hint: New Arnott struts do not have the ability to alter the ride stiffness; Arnott remanufactured OE struts retain the feature, and are much less expensive as well.

When the W221 was new, the idea of a permanently-sealed transmission was still in vogue. However, MB has now recommended a one-time transmission fluid change at 40,000 miles, in both the W221 and in the newer E-Class. The problem that occurred with the early 722.9 transmission (first introduced for MY'04) was inferior solenoids from a supplier, installed on the conductor plate. The solenoid quality problem has been remedied. However, new fluid at 40K miles keeps the solenoids clean and heads off problems. Frankly, I will likely change mine every 40K miles. If your tranny should give you problems, it will most likely be because of the conductor plate components, which will not require a complete rebuild or tranny replacement.

You will probably find it difficult to get a warranty on a car with over 100,000 miles. Those who would offer one would likely contain language covering the "shocks and springs" - but when you went to repair an Airmatic strut, they would claim that is not a shock or a spring, and decline coverage. Some 3rd party warranties are infamous for stuff like that - read them closely, if you find one. I suggest instead salting away perhaps $5,000, and keep it available for any major problems (most problems would not cost nearly that much to repair).

We have a reference for DIY and FAQs in the stickies at the top of the first W221 page. There are four of them. The best thing I can say about the reliability of the W221 is to refer you to the W220 S-Class Encyclopedia (which I compiled) - HERE. Compare that to the four W221 DIY & FAQs, which serve the same purpose as the W220 Encyclopedia. Note the dearth of entries in the W221 vs the W220. Note that in many cases, the W221 entries refer you to the W220 Encyclopedia. This is because we have received so few complaints in those areas, although the systems designs are similar. It is true that the oldest W220 is twice as old as the oldest W221 - but it is also true that there are simply far fewer problems with the W221! There has been less to write about. A trip through the W221 DIY & FAQs will give you an idea of problem areas.

That's not to say the W221 is problem free, but it has been far more reliable than its predecessor. In fact, the MY'07 was JD Powers' top-ranked kuxury car in its 2007 Initial Quality ratings.
 
#6 ·
The car you are considering seems to have received superior service - and it is beautifully equipped! It has a wonderful options package.

There has been some attention devoted to the suspension components on that car, but one could expect wear and tear on ball joints and related steering and front-end suspension components on ANY high-mileage car, especially as they approach the 100K mile mark. The joints or bushings in non-airmatic portions of the suspension could easily be causing the squeak, and one could expect the need for replacement of some of these components. They are not terribly expensive.

Any car will also require periodic replacement of load-bearing suspension components, whether shocks & springs, pneumatic suspensions, or the Mercedes computer-controlled hydraulic ABC system. Three observations: The fact that none of your Airmatic components seem to have been changed is itself testament to how much the design has improved from its original use in the S-Class and E-Class. We do not seem to have nearly as many problems, for example, as the 2000-2003 W220. The second observation: The car does have a lot of miles, and the likelihood of Airmatic problems is greater than on a car with fewer miles, especially because those components have never been replaced. Third: Arnott Industries has brought the cost of Airmatic components down markedly (and I have read, but cannot verify, that MB also incorporated strut improvements originally put in place by Arnott, leading to fewer failures in the OE MB equipment). One hint: New Arnott struts do not have the ability to alter the ride stiffness; Arnott remanufactured OE struts retain the feature, and are much less expensive as well.

When the W221 was new, the idea of a permanently-sealed transmission was still in vogue. However, MB has now recommended a one-time transmission fluid change at 40,000 miles, in both the W221 and in the newer E-Class. The problem that occurred with the early 722.9 transmission (first introduced for MY'04) was inferior solenoids from a supplier, installed on the conductor plate. Solenoid quality problem has been remedied. However, new fluid at 40K miles keeps the solenoids clean and heads off problems. Frankly, I will likely change mine every 40K miles. If your tranny should give you problems, it will most likely be because of the conductor plate components, which will not require a complete rebuild or tranny replacement.

You will probably find it difficult to get a warranty on a car with over 100,000 miles. Those who would offer one would likely contain language covering the "shocks and springs" - but when you went to repair an Airmatic strut, they would claim that is not a shock or a spring, and decline coverage. Some 3rd party warranties are infamous for stuff like that - read them closely, if you find one. I suggest instead salting away perhaps $5,000, and keep it available for any major problems (most problems would not cost nearly that much to repair).

We have a reference for DIY and FAQs in the stickies at the top of the first W220 page. There are four of them. The best thing I can say about the reliability of the W221 is to refer you to the W220 S-Class Encyclopedia (which I compiled) - HERE. Compare that to the four W221 DIY & FAQs, which serve the same purpose as the W220 Encyclopedia. Note the dearth of entries in the W221 vs the W220. Note that in many cases, the W221 entires refer you to the W220 Encyclopedia. This is because we have received so few complaints in those areas, although the systems designs are similar. It is true that the oldest W220 is twice as old as the oldest W221 - but it is also true that there are simply far fewer problems with the W221! There has been less to write about. A trip through the W221 DIY & FAQs will give you an idea of problem areas.

That's not to say the W221 is problem feee, but it has been far more reliable than its predecessor. In fact, the MY'07 was JD Powers' top-ranked kuxury car in its 2007 Initial Quality ratings.
Great info, Skylaw. Thanks!

I would definitely be prepared to replace suspension parts. My W210 has showed me these things will go bad on a Mercedes. To me, that stuff is just wear and tear. I am wondering if some of these suspension parts on this car were replaced more frequently than the Carfax suggests, only because I find it hard to believe the previous owner had tie rod ends changes at 30,000 miles and never again. I guess it's possible.

About Airmatic, I was extremely surprised that nothing Airmatic related seems to have been touched. I guess MB got it right for the most part with the W221. To be honest, Airmatic would not intimidate me as much as long as you can replace them yourself. I thought I read something on the forums about needing a STAR computer to do the job. Is this true? Otherwise, I have a friend who is a mechanic and knows how to do just about anything. I'm sure he would be able to do the job, even without following the DIY.

As far as a warranty goes, the owner of the place didn't seem like getting one would be an issue. I didn't specifically ask him that question, but he did say they offer them. The warranty is through Cars Protection Plus. I am assuming they are reputable. Would have to see what they would want for coverage, as I have no idea. Also, the warranty info he gave me says for suspension it covers Ball joints, leaf, air & coil springs. I guess Airmatic would be covered. Any idea what a good 4 year warranty could cost? I know it varies, but I have absolutely have no idea. I thought the owner said something about $2000 or so.

If I got this car, one of the first things I would do is change all of the fluids. It's pretty cheap and can save a lot of trouble. I would hope that the transmission fluid was changed, but I don't know for sure. I'd imagine the car would have been pretty lucky to go 140,000 miles with original fluid. I suppose it's possible. I have to say that trans and Airmatic are really my only big concerns. However, I feel like the price seems good. Could be wrong, though.

I am also surprised I didn't see any mention of wheel bearing replacement. Do they really last that long? I had to do all four of them on my W210 so far.

Anyway, I will definitely read some more. When I get a chance, I'll comb through some of the stickies. I appreciate your help.
 
#5 ·
Car seems to have eaten tires.
My 2007 w staggered wheels gets about 20K miles per set. At $300-$400/ tires this is an expense you should be aware of.
I don't have an extended warranty, so I keep $7K aside to cover any of the big issues. Have had the car since Feb. 2010, have put 60K on it.
Good luck if you choose to go for it.
Mike Kuck
Staten Island, NY
 
#7 ·
Hi Mike,

I noticed this too. Lots of tires. It would definitely need them more than my current car.
Does your S have the AMG rims too? And what are the tire sizes? This car has the sport package with the upgraded wheels, which I'm guessing are staggered. Or do all S classes come staggered?
And yes I will definitely have to be prepared for any big issues, which I'm sure would be painful. Though I'm guessing you haven't had any major problems with yours, right?
Thanks
 
#8 ·
My first reply!

Hi, well this is my first reply in fact my first attendance in BenzWorld. Needless to say we are all here for the same reason, share and help each other about our Mercedes cars and in this case the W221. You seem to be at the same spot I was 6 months ago when I finally retired the trusty W140 for my new W221 s500 or in your case 550. I had the same exact dilemma whereas to retire my W140 or not for a w221 with 92000 miles(148000km) exact. I have my fair share with Mercedes w126 w140 plus friends, family cars. The car I looked at was owned by a rich guy he had a whole space for 10 different cars only problem he did not keep track of all maintenance as he just sent one of his guys to fix it. When I first saw the car it looked like it has been parked for a while as he had other newer models and it is a 2006 not an 07 so at first I was hesitate then I called and sat an appointment with one of his people as he is busy obviously and took it to my mechanic and after checking everything including a STAR computer diagnose it seemed very well clean I was surprised Engine life came out to 90%. At that moment it hit me that this car was not abused by any means it was slightly used but still being a 2006 I told him to give me 48 hours to think about he agreed to 24 so he could put it back for sale I shook his hands an walked a way. I went to check the VIN number. I couldn't believe what I read! The car had everything Mercedes had to offer I mean every single bit of it! front heated/cooled message seats. rear heated/cooled seats. Tables for the rear seats two dvd screens for rear seats. all seats are messaged aka Mulitcontour all around. all 3 screens had TV! not while driving for front but you get the idea plus the refrigerator, night vision front headlight washer and list just goes on... Asking price was 20k us dollar. I went the next day and bought the car. I must say I could not be any happier than this, yet after 2-3 months small things starting to fail but the two main things are one aromatic shock and now oil in coolant tank. I fixed the shock but not so happy about the oil part as I could loose the transmission or the god forbid the engine if i don't attend the issue. so in reality I paid 20k for 120k car fully loaded that's 9 or 10 years old I guess if I drop another 3-5k to get everything in perfect condition with engine being almost new I think I'd have a car for another 10 years better yet a fully loaded ''S-Klasse''. I wouldn't buy the one you saw unless you do what I did go to a Mercedes specialist and lift it check everything and do STAR diagnose and just hope nothing major fail but I assure you some small stuff will as it's approaching the 'Decade mark' Good luck
 
#12 ·
Hi, well this is my first reply in fact my first attendance in BenzWorld. Needless to say we are all here for the same reason, share and help each other about our Mercedes cars and in this case the W221. You seem to be at the same spot I was 6 months ago when I finally retired the trusty W140 for my new W221 s500 or in your case 550. I had the same exact dilemma whereas to retire my W140 or not for a w221 with 92000 miles(148000km) exact. I have my fair share with Mercedes w126 w140 plus friends, family cars. The car I looked at was owned by a rich guy he had a whole space for 10 different cars only problem he did not keep track of all maintenance as he just sent one of his guys to fix it. When I first saw the car it looked like it has been parked for a while as he had other newer models and it is a 2006 not an 07 so at first I was hesitate then I called and sat an appointment with one of his people as he is busy obviously and took it to my mechanic and after checking everything including a STAR computer diagnose it seemed very well clean I was surprised Engine life came out to 90%. At that moment it hit me that this car was not abused by any means it was slightly used but still being a 2006 I told him to give me 48 hours to think about he agreed to 24 so he could put it back for sale I shook his hands an walked a way. I went to check the VIN number. I couldn't believe what I read! The car had everything Mercedes had to offer I mean every single bit of it! front heated/cooled message seats. rear heated/cooled seats. Tables for the rear seats two dvd screens for rear seats. all seats are messaged aka Mulitcontour all around. all 3 screens had TV! not while driving for front but you get the idea plus the refrigerator, night vision front headlight washer and list just goes on... Asking price was 20k us dollar. I went the next day and bought the car. I must say I could not be any happier than this, yet after 2-3 months small things starting to fail but the two main things are one aromatic shock and now oil in coolant tank. I fixed the shock but not so happy about the oil part as I could loose the transmission or the god forbid the engine if i don't attend the issue. so in reality I paid 20k for 120k car fully loaded that's 9 or 10 years old I guess if I drop another 3-5k to get everything in perfect condition with engine being almost new I think I'd have a car for another 10 years better yet a fully loaded ''S-Klasse''. I wouldn't buy the one you saw unless you do what I did go to a Mercedes specialist and lift it check everything and do STAR diagnose and just hope nothing major fail but I assure you some small stuff will as it's approaching the 'Decade mark' Good luck
Interesting story.

Oil in the coolant is certainly not good. Seems like you just had bad luck with that one. You clearly did everything you could to make sure it was a good car. Hopefully you can resolve that. That's a good reason why I would make sure I get a warranty if I end up buying this one. I don't want to get surprised with a four digit bill right after I buy the thing, unless it's some minor suspension work. One thing I did notice on this particular car is that it looks like the front brake pads weren't replaced until 97,000 miles. Assuming this was the first time they were changed, it appears that the car was driven mostly highway. Would also explain the lack of anything Airmatic related being replaced. It is only tough to tell because sometimes the Carfax isn't super detailed, like when it says "vehicle serviced." That could mean anything. Anyway, I would definitely take it to a good mechanic before buying. I have a place in mind, just still not 100% sure if I want the car. I figure if they sell it before I decide, no big deal. I save $15k.

Thanks for your input.
 
#10 · (Edited)
Regarding STAR diagnosis and Airmatic - Sometimes STAR diagnosis is necessary for Airmatic problems, particularly when other checks for the obvious (listening for hissing at a strut; the soapy water test at connections) do not reveal the problem. Changing the struts, airmatic pump, and valve body are not difficult, but STAR diagnosis in advance may avoid throwing money at unneeded repairs. After changing struts, if the car does not sit level on level ground, adjustment of the ride height sensors via STAR may be required.

Regarding tire wear - staggered wheels, which the car you are inquiring about has (it is part of the sport package), do result in greater rear tire wear as Mike says. My car has that setup, and while I haven't driven far enough to have to change tires, the rears evidence a bit more wear than the fronts. You cannot rotate the tires to even out wear. However, I like the look, so pay the penalty.

The 4Matics with the Sport package are equipped with 19" or 20" wheels, but all are the same size.
 
#14 ·
First, it may be a lot easier to locate a qualified MB tech in the event STAR is needed, rather than buying it and learning how to use it. I'm sure you'll find some in New Jersey (You could check the recommended shops section of BenzWorld; they're arranged geographically).

However, if you wish to buy one, there is considerable discussion and recommendation in the W220-forum. It would be a matter of your preference, rather than need. You could start your research HERE, but there are many more discussions.
 
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