My Ardit Car

My Ardit Car

The arrival of the W204-series C-class in January 2007 was a landmark for Mercedes-Benz, which had spent much of the previous decade seeing its hard-won, and previously unimpeachable, reputation for quality and mechanical integrity going up in smoke. The previous all-new Mercedes model, the W211 E-class, had been riddled with problems and the model鈥檚 innovative electric braking system had to be abandoned mid-stream. Desperate to get itself back on track, Mercedes went to exceptional measures with the W204. It created what was then the world鈥檚 most advanced digital simulation of the whole car which could be tested in 鈥榗yber-space鈥?to iron out most problems before the real-world testing regime began. That regime was also far more rigorous than Mercedes had indulged in before, covering millions of miles in virtually every real-world condition. Mercedes also put a huge effort into debugging the electric systems. In the years since the car was unveiled to the press in Stuttgart, the C-class has lived up to Mercedes鈥?hopes, in service it has proved to be among the most bulletproof of the company鈥檚 models.

The C-class underwent a serious facelift and re-engineering in spring 2011, with around 2000 components being either redesigned or re-engineered. For 2013 and to combat the new BMW 3-series, the C-class has received more gentle tinkering. Along with a new engine for the C180, there is a rebranded entry-level model, the Executive SE, and the previous Sport trim has been expanded into AMG Sport and AMG Sport Plus options. The facelift model got more curvaceous headlamps, reprofiled bumpers, a slightly more contoured aluminum bonnet and revised rear lamps. The changes inside are similarly subtle, led by a new upper dashboard fascia with a cubbyhole to house the monitor for latest Comand control system. The biggest changes were under the bonnet. Every engine was upgraded and combined with a range of so-called BlueEfficiency features, including automatic stop-start. Chassis modifications were intended to make the new model a more engaging drive without ruining the compliant ride. The autobox got seven speeds.

Second, closely examine the headliner for rips and tears. If you see any, PASS. 200, but IF THE RIPS ARE IN THE AREAS OUTSIDE THE SUNROOF AREA installation requires the removal of the windshield and rear glass with new seals - not something you want to pay for. Third: Be aware that US spec cars featured unique headlight door/surround trim made by Bosch and some aftermarket suppliers like URO/APA and WD Express. As of 2014, these surrounds are no longer made and there is no "old stock". If these surrounds are clouded or cracked, your only real choice is to pony up for a set of new headlight assemblies or convert to Euro units. Front Jack Port is seen in rocker panel at lower right. Always check these for rust. Finally, let's talk about rust. The 190e hardly ever exhibits rust corrosion EXCEPT at the four jack ports located just behind and ahead of the wheels in the rocker panel.

These are plainly visible with 1984 to 1988 cars without the plastic lower cladding, but are hidden in later models. The rust is caused because the drain tubes from the roof empty at these points and when clogged with leaves and debris, over time rust occurs. If the rust is minor, fine but commit to fixing it immediately. If you find rust anywhere else on these cars, something is amiss - pass. 2000 Mercedes: Be prepared to triple that investment within the first year to sort things out. 190e's under 100k miles are near impossible to find .If you search the entire country, you may find three or four. 5000 more than the one with 100,000 miles. MILEAGE is starting to play a larger role in the final price. 15k due to being the last year of production and a 1/700 rarity. History has shown that Mercedes collector car prices have a tendency to rise very slowly until they are about 30 years old, then spike rapidly. The best advice when buying is to look at as many as possible. First, you'll learn what goes wrong on all of them, and second - you'll learn to determine relative value - so when you see a good one for a good price, you'll recognize it - and act. Let's face it: Mercedes parts are expensive, and auto mechanics put their kids through college on what they charge you, no matter what car you drive. If possible, make your purchase contingent upon a Pre-Purchase inspection by a Mercedes Benz dealer. 250 and many will credit the fee back if recommended repairs are made. This is a pittance for knowing what the REAL mechanical condition of your next car actually is. If the seller is unwilling to allow an inspection, pass on the car.