[bcoverma]

Hi All -

New to the group. Thanks in advance for the help !

I'm looking to pick up a pre-owned and certified 2005 e320 at a MB dealership. The car has 27K miles and appears to be very clean.

What I am wondering about is:

1) what maintenance should I ensure is complete at27K miles
2) what, if any "known issues" should I ask the dealership about
3) during a test drive, what should I try/test to get an indication the car is mechanically sound

Again... thanks for the help!

 

[DrJfrmLA]

If it's a CPO, there should be no mechanical issues. Besides, it's still under factory warranty. The dealer can check the maintenance schedule by computer if the car has been maintained at a dealership. Ask the dealer to check all recalls and technical notices for the car and make sure everything has been done to this one. The only maintenance issue that may have slipped through the cracks is changing the cabin filters. Unless the original owner is meticulous, the cabin filters have probably not been replaced, and it's a good idea to replace them every 20k or so, depending on dust and pollution issues in your area.

CPOs are pretty safe buys from a mechanical perspective.

 

[Musikmann]

I'm in total agreement regarding CPO cars with one caveat: that is providing the dealer followed the MB checklist to the letter, the car should be safe and sound. There are something like 150 items that they are supposed to pass or fail. If something fails, it is replaced with a new part. For example, my CPO came with new front brake rotors because they were worn more than what MB considers acceptable.

One suggestion if you buy the car: ask for the repair order for the CPO inspection so you will have that as part of your history. That normally does not appear on the VMI (vehicle master inquiry) to which DrJfrmLA alluded.

Good Luck!

 

[MB-SV]

Musikmann - I agree, the CPO car is a good way to purchase an MB. I never saw the repair order on my CPO ML350, but they did mention tires and windshield replacement.

btw, In the case of your high oil consumption that your are experiencing, is that considered normal for this engine type (3.2L)? (realizing anything better than 1000 miles to the quart does not require warranty repair). Did the dealer comment or do other drivers here have observations on oil use?

 

[bcoverma]

thanks All - --

Hi All --- Picked up the car tonight... just as was recommended, I asked the dealer to show me the list of items replaced. Within 5min the sales person had the list for me in a MB CPO folder with a carfax report, and other details on the CPO process. All minor items, including the service required for the miles.

I did not ask, nor did the dealer mention anything about oil use. I need to take it back for a full detailing and will ask about that item then.

Again, thanks for the help and I look forward to discussing my new toy further with you all.

Brian

 

[Kajtek1]

CPO might be big help for people not mechanically inclined, but like Musikman's sample shows will not give 100% guarantee for perfection. None of my MB uses any oil between 13k change, even those bought on ebay where one has 243k on odometer.
My quick advice would be do compression test if you have the time and agree to spend some money. Another very easy test is compare 0-60 acceleration with factory data. Any difference would indicate some engine problems.