Faults:
Backseat passenger door lock failed.
Three of the four automatic windows failed.
The oil leaks and needs refilling every month or so.
The A/C only works for 6 months before needing a refill.
Loose/broken A/C vents.
Car cuts off randomly when coming to or starting from a stop, sometimes not restarting for several minutes.
The leather interior on the door panel ripped from normal wear. I am not hard on my car.
The idle speed fluctuates often.
Brake lights need replacing often.
Several fuses have needed replacing.
Motor mounts broke at 120,000. This cost over 1,000 to fix.
The rear defrost failed at 125,000.
General Comments:
I never want to own another Mercedes again.
The car is far too expensive to maintain and still remain on a practical budget.
The mechanics have replaced several things on the car trying to fix the cutting-off problem, but to no avail. I have had to put more money into this car than it is worth in order to keep it running. I haven't even fixed everything on my list because it is too expensive.
The car is a real money pit. If you have the cash to spare, go for it. I'd almost pay you to take mine.
If you want a Mercedes, get one relatively recent. It's not worth it to put all the money into fixing one of these up.
29th Oct 2005, 01:59
I agree with the above comments. I have a 1992 190 E 2.6 with 88,000 miles, and it's been the most reliable car I've ever owned. If you treat these vehicles right they will outlive you. Preventative maintence is the key (that goes for any car). If you buy a used one that has been abused it will be problamatic, of course. But in general, Mercedes of this era are bullet-proof.