comments on 05 E320 CDI - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

lws1 · #1 08-31-2009, 11:48 AM

Hi. I am looking at a 2005, E320 CDI with 35,000 miles. I am not familiar with the newer MB cars and am wondering if there is anything I should look for in particular with this model. I know there's a debate about the inline vs. the V6 diesel and like the idea of less is better on the emission sensors, etc. Is this a car that will last a long, long time? Can I take it to my indy mechanic for servicing? I drive a 2002 Lexus IS300 Sportcross and it's been great, but I find it so boring... There is NOTHING like German engineering. I also do not want to get into a money pit like my '95 Benz. One of my past mechanics said he did not like diesels because they run so hot that they always burn all the rubber up and then leaks start.

Any comments or advice is very appreciated.

Lance

husk · #2 08-31-2009, 12:40 PM

these cars have some of the same problems as the 606.962 (i.e. stuck glow plugs, fuel leaks etc) The motor itself is problem free but the W211's did have a recall on the SBC wiring harness. Make sure this has been done. This car is not really DIY friendly as it requires SDS to diagnose and reset a lot of the electronics.

TX76513 · #3 08-31-2009, 12:51 PM

Not DIY Friendly even the brakes are a PIA

TMAllison · #4 08-31-2009, 01:40 PM

Like every car in the USA since 96, the CDI is OBDII compliant per Fed requirements. As such, it is required to provide generic engine/emissions codes which with proper diagnosis will allow one to DIY. Pending what you are working on some special tools may be required or be helpful. As with any newer car, a different thought process is needed when working on one versus working on a 350 Chevy with points and a carb.

The I6 CDI has been a very sucessful design IMO and was used in Europe and elsewhere beginning in 2000. We didn't get it until 05. The V6 arrived in 07.

SBC brakes disappeared in 07.

Scott98 · #5 08-31-2009, 01:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lws1

One of my past mechanics said he did not like diesels because they run so hot that they always burn all the rubber up and then leaks start.

Don't ever talk to this man again.

Scott

michakaveli · #6 08-31-2009, 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scott98

Don't ever talk to this man again.

Scott

+1

#7 08-31-2009, 04:00 PM

Please post the name of this "mechanic" so we can all avoid him like the plauge!! Diesels run much cooler than their gasoline cousins. The new diesels are very electronic intensive but are supposed to be pretty good.

KarTek · #8 08-31-2009, 04:40 PM

OK, as luck would have it, a friend of mine just called and he's looking at an '06 CDI. 35,000 miles, $31k. It's at a dealer, certified with a 100k mile warranty.

Any issues on the '06's that did not apply to the '05? Is this a reasonable price?

i-osprey · #9 08-31-2009, 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scott98

Don't ever talk to this man again.

Scott

+2

TylerH860 · #10 08-31-2009, 04:50 PM

The CPO part costs ALOT of money, but it still seems about 5 grand too high.

I got my wagon in the teens with 45k on it... no CPO of course. The time bomb is still ticking away nicely for now.

TMAllison · #11 08-31-2009, 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KarTek

OK, as luck would have it, a friend of mine just called and he's looking at an '06 CDI. 35,000 miles, $31k. It's at a dealer, certified with a 100k mile warranty.

Any issues on the '06's that did not apply to the '05? Is this a reasonable price?

Thats def full retail IMO, to me its worth low twenties.....dealers are offering ~$15k off new 09's right now. There are 07/08 Bluetecs around for similar $$$; and they dont have SBC.

lkchris · #12 08-31-2009, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lws1

Can I take it to my indy mechanic for servicing?

If and only if your "indy mechanic" has Mercedes factory training, a STAR diagnosis machine and has a subscription to WIS. Even for oil changes.

Scott98 · #13 08-31-2009, 07:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lkchris

If and only if your "indy mechanic" has Mercedes factory training, a STAR diagnosis machine and has a subscription to WIS. Even for oil changes.

+1. Like Mickey at Jim's Fine Cars in Albuquerque.

Scott

3pointstar · #14 08-31-2009, 09:29 PM

I have a 2006 E320 CDI and all I can say is WOW -- I have just turned 78K and it runs better than the day I got it. It has been almost trouble free -- some very very minor issues when I purchased that were covered under warranity. Fuel economy has been very good. The best was around 39mpg highway. Pick up and go is rather scarry -- If you are not careful you will be at 100mph before you can say diesel. Yes it is true that this is not a DIY vehicle.

all the best

3pointstar

michakaveli · #15 08-31-2009, 09:32 PM

These w211's sound like great cars, but are not at all DIY.