Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

coallen

I cast another vote for Lisa Lehrbaum at Courtesy Motors in Chic, California. Purchased an extended warranty from her for my E320 4MATIC. Four years Mercedes Premium Coverage for $1780.00. She was a pleasure to work with.

rokinkead

Look at the label on the pillar when you open the driver's door. I think it says 29 front/32 rear. I have tried 32 all around and found it a bit too harsh but with better handling. I settled back to 29/32. Smoother ride w/ less handling prowess. I prefer it that way. BTW, I live in South Florida as well. With the higher inflation pressure, I noticed too much of difference in ride when the pavement texture changes. e.g coming up the Turnpike and shifting from new to old pavement.

greasykid1

Sorry to be late in responding. After 30 yrs with MB and 16 cars I have switched to a Lexus LS430 & have not regretted the change. Yes the sound system is better & have both cassette & 6 CD changer in dash. Will not go further with my reasons for the change as I do not to start any heated discussions.

mbdriver

I also seriously considered the AMG 5-spoke 203s based on cmayer's experience. But once I got a look (at a local MB dealer, $368 each) at an actual MB E Style wheel with a tire mounted, I was sold! I really LOVE the wheels, the look of the car and the Yoko AVS dB tires.

The wheels are similar in shape and appearance (spoke size, machined lip) to the AMG 203, but with some unobtrusive sculptured detail in the spokes and inner rim. I was concerned about the detail detracting too much, but it actually enhances the appearance of the wheel -- and it's not too noticeable until you're close, and then, it's WOW!!! I couldn't be more pleased, and with a side-by-side comparison with the AMG 203, I much prefer the MB E Style wheel. Too bad I don't have a photo -- but I soon will after I buy the cheapest SONY digital, per fastdriver's advice on the Zaino forum (snap the photo, place the floppy in the A drive (PC and MAC compatible), and upload to server!).

BTW, the brake dust problem seems to have almost disappeared with the new wheels. I have about 5 coats of Zaino Z-2 on them, and the dust is almost unnoticeable and comes off with a squirt of the hose. Maybe it's the openness of the 5-spoke configuration or the aerodynamics of the wheel. But what a great unexpected bonus.

The center caps and lug bolts were included with the wheels/tires at no additional cost from discounttiredirect, and they were balanced (plastic or similar glued to the inside of the wheel!). My dealer was going to charge me $25 to mount them, but did it free!

I run all four tires at 36 lbs., and the ride and smoothness are fantastic. Small pot holes yield the expected bump and harshness, but on smooth pavement it's great.

If I seem enthused and pleased, especially with the wheels and tires, I am. My wife is tired of me telling her every time I drive the car just how much I love it. She may even be experiencing a bit of jealousy!

fletchkel

I live in Jersey and this past winter got out of my lowley Chevy (Suzuki) Tracker to push E's without 4matic. If you come anywhere near ice, snow, etc. the 4 wheel drive is a must. I am going to buy an "E" and wondered if the rear wheel drive wouldn't suffice since, after all, it is a MERCEDES. WRONG!! I'll never leave home without 4 wheel drive.

peterd320

Mbdriver, thanks for the reply, all the information you have posted have been very helpfull, I know how you feel about the car, I feel the same way, and I'm having the same problem with the wife (jealousy), I guest I'm spending to much time on the car, but that's part of been a MB owner.

dcman2

raybear,

Where did you get your info from regarding $2000 off? Is it applicable to all areas? Is it off MSRP or invoice? 'cause I don't see any reference to it anywhere.

svinaik

Checkout the "Carsdirect.com" and use NJ zip code say 08933. E class is being sold at the invoice price.Actual price should be a lot lower than that considering inventory at the dealers and very weak sales performance.

keithlca

I tried 95131 (San Jose) zip code, the E320 price is only $2K off MSRP. I also tried 92707 (LA) zip code, the same E320 price is about $4300 off MSRP! I guess for that money, I can fly to LA:)

landinggear

Hello everyone from New York City. First, let me say that I'm really impressed with the quality of the discussion on this board.

I am looking at possibly leasing a new E320. I heard (and saw some messages here) that this model is being radically re-designed.

Does anyone have any solid information on when the 2002 E320 will be out?

Should I wait?

midwestmb

See the entire board for guesstimates on when the redesigned E-Class will be out.

The current model is a very solid, well debugged vehicle that can be had a quite a reasonable price (E320) right now. Personally, I would not buy any 1st or 2nd year of a model run, not even MB. I prefer to wait until the bugs are out and the "new and cool" premium pricing has dissipated.

There are significant dealer incentives on the E320 right now, so a good lease deal should be easily had - if East Coast guys aren't dealing, call around the midwest.

I don't claim to speak for anyone but myself, but if you're looking for a car to haul 1-5 adults in superb comfort, with exceptional safety and good performance, there are few if any cars superior to the current E320, particularly in a lease situation since free scheduled maintenance + 4/50k warranty means your spending on maintenance is going to be zero, unless you need "repairs" (i.e. crash damage).

landinggear

Thanks for the quick reply. What do you think a good monthly payment would be without a down payment (if indeed that is possible)?

jamesr88

concerning pricing, here in VA beach you can lease a 01 e320 for 599/month with approximately 1500 down, 10k/year miles and i dont know residual. I am not sure how this compares to other locales. hope this helps. PS i'm not sure of deals for 430.

ong2000

Could anyone help me where I can get the picture for the new 2003 E-Class ???
Thanks.

rexconde1

Here are some Concepts . . I must stress that they are computer generated, and it is only what one magazine THINKS it will look like.

http://mbspy.bacosys.be/w211cg.htm

Robert

bargamon

I agree very much with midwestmb says. Unless price is not an issue. Then you pay a premium for newness. This current version is very right, and you will not get any kind of break in price. If so, then only because demand is not there. That would be if The 03', is butt ugly or over priced.

I have an 01' 430 and love it. I look forward too the next generation. My car will not look any less cool, drive any less smooth, and not be any less reliable. Depreciation is a fact of life as are new models. WHen mine is 4 years old, the new one will be "debugged", the first upgrade, perhaps to the engine will be introduced, and maybe I will get that model. But that is then and this is now, and now I enjoy this vehicle alot!

drew_

Just a reminder that the MB chat is on tonight (6-7pm Pacific/9-10 pm Eastern). Hope to see you there!
http://www.edmunds.com/chat/mercedeschat.html


Drew
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peterd320

MBdriver, one last question regarding the 17" wheel / tire upgrade on your 00 E320. Right after the upgrade, did you have to have any adjustments like wheel alignment done to the car, and can you switch back and forth between the stock set (16") and new set (17"), I would like to run the 16" set in the winter with the all season tires as we get a little snow over the winter in Northern New Jersey, and run the new set (17") in the summer time.
Back in 2000 when I purchased the car, I would have purchased the sport package, but it was only available on the E430, and I could not talk my wife on getting the E430 sport, since the day I took delivery it's been on my mind to upgrade the wheels.
Again, thanks for all the info. on the upgrade.

macbest

Does anyone have any idea when MB will release the 2002 model to the US? In the past, deliveries started to take place during September with the roll out of the other cars. MLs often had to wait until October to get rid of inventory.

Although there are still 2001 E's on the lot, here in Northern Calif, they are nearly gone. I have heard that the C class coupe will debut in July time frame. Might this be the release date for E's also?

I have an order placed although I think it is just a place holder as no firm delivery or build date has been set. Drew, any inside scoop?

habitat1

Has anyone heard anything regarding a return of a turbodiesel model in the E-class?

A former neighbor of mine was a Daimler Chrysler exec and had mentioned over a Heinekin a year ago that MB would probably be reintroducing a new turbodiesel in the E by the 2002 model. According to "Manfred", MB was developing a 3.5 litre motor capable of nearly holding it's own against the 4.3 litre gas (I recall 240 hp, 350 ft lbs, 30 mpg).

I had heard that the discontinuation of the turbodiesel after 1999 was temporary until they made some adjustments to get it or a replacement to fit under the more streamlined hood of 2000+ models. I haven't heard anything since and my local dealer is pretty unreliable with "news" (was absolutely sure the CLK 430 would be available with a 6-speed this year).

My buddy has a 1999 turbodiesel E and is really gloating over averaging 32+ mpg on relatively cheap diesel. He managed 38+ mpg on a recent 600 mile highway trip at 75 mph. I personally prefer the BMW 5 series to the comparable gasoline E-models for, among other things, crisper handling and availability of manual transmissions. However, the thought of a turbodiesel getting 30+ mpg and being able to hand the car down a generation or two certainly has some appeal. I anticipate purchasing in late 2001 or early 2002, possibly through Euro Delivery.

Any info will be appreciated.

dcman2

CarsDirect is quoting a price that's $2000+ off invoice for 320s and 430s good until today for the DC area. What's the conventional wisdom as far as CarsDirect pricing goes? Do you think the dealerships honor or beat that price? If not, anyone has experience purchasing an MB directly from CarsDirect ?

raybear

You can always challange your local dealer, or try another internet service to see if they'll meet or beat the price. Bit late to be asking.

mbdriver

The only adjustment I had to make after installing 17" wheels/tires on my 2000 E320 was for the COMAND system. I had to enter the new wheel size (17") and actual tire size (235/45 Z17). The dealer did an alignment check (free prior to first anniversary) prior to installing the new wheels/tires. From all I've heard and read, you should have no problem going from 17" to 16" and vice-versa.

Perhaps Drew can help with an input. BTW, check out the following web site provided by Drew many months ago -- it's a tire size calculator -- www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html -- good info!

I'm still tickled pink about the upgrade, especially the look of the MB Style E wheels and 17" tires. And what a difference in handling and drivability (if that's a word)! I just ordered a digital camera, so perhaps I can post a photo of the car soon.

Hope this helps.

landinggear

That's what I was told by a Mercedes salesman today here in New York City. He said the 2002 model E-320 will be in the show room in July so we should know pretty soon how reliable this information is.

merc1

That info is correct. The 2003 E is due in the fall of 2002 in the U.S. and in spring of 2002 in Europe. There will be special editions of the current E for the 2002 model year too.

M

macbest

What kind of special editions are planned? I saw nothing of this on the tear sheets from the dealer. Will this likely occur in the Spring of 2002 when they finish up the model year?

drew_

merc1

I would say spring of 2002, because Mercedes always does a "special edition" in the last model year of their cars. They usually combine special colors and options together for thousands less that it would cost to add them seperately.

M

vs4

Anybody know if there are any special pricing for E-class for June month? If there is any does it apply to factory ordered car?

Thanks in advance.

dcman2

Picked up an E320 over the weekend. Aspen green exterior and java interior. This is my first Mercedes and I love it. Everything worked okay to the extent I explored thus far. However, I could not get the garage door opener to work. I remember to have seen a message or two regarding this in the past. If someone can share the wisdom on this as to how to go about getting this to work, I appreciate it. Also, my 3 yr old daughter left a couple of stains on the leather.Wiping with a wet towel did not work. Should I go to a dealer shop to get the right kind of cleaner? Are there any over the counter stain removers that work well without destroying the leather?

apk711

Mercedes Benz had a $2,000 dealer incentive for May 01. Any news on lease promotions for e-class in June 01? 2002 e 320 in July 01? Please advise.

sddlw

Try asking in the "Leather Seat Maintenance" topic in "Maintenence and Repair".

chipper12

I had the same problem with my garage opener. My fix was getting a ladder and pushing a red button located on the motor housing of the opener ( also refered to as a learning or training bottom in my garage owner's manual). I followed the additional directions in the car manual to finish the process. The car manual provides directions for the process as well. Hopes this helps. I have 1500 miles on a new I 320 and very pleased at this point.

drew_

Don't miss the weekly MB Tuesdays chat at 6-7pm Pacific/9-10pm Eastern! All MB fans/enthusists/owners/potential owners are welcome to participate. Hope to see you there!

Click on the link below to enter the chat at the times above. Note that the link to the chat is always near the top of this page, just under the discussion topic title:

http://www.edmunds.com/chat/mercedeschat.html


Drew
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mcintex

I recently purchased a 97 E420 and have been considering upgrading the rims/tires to 17". I have seen a lot of discussion here about it, but I know that between 95 and 2001 there have been changes to the model. I believe the correct measurement is 17x7.5 but I am not sure on the offset (35mm or ??). Thanks for the help.

tomsky3

Lexol leather cleaner should work fine.

Jack

mercz97

mcintex:

I have a 97 E320 and just upgraded my wheels. Went with 18X8 wheels in the front with 235/40-18 tires and 18X9 rear with 275/35-18. I have no problem with rubbing at all. They look better than the 17's.

e320wagon

Our 2001 e320 4matic wagon is approaching 3000 mikes, and I'm leaning towards changing the oil (the dealer says this isn't necessary, and suggests waiting for the FSS indicated 10k mi service, but I know I'll feel better!). My first question concerns the use of a "topsider" - is it really necessary to vacuum out the oil, or is it just easier? I really would prefer to drain it - seems like it would be more effective. Is there a drain plug in the pan? Is there access to it, or do you have to remove a shield?

Next question - oil viscosity. I got the MB letter requiring synthetic, and recommending 0W40 and 15W50 Mobil 1. Unfortunately, I can't find Mobil 1 0W40 anywhere! Even the Mobil web site does not list it (0W30,5W30,10W30, and 15W50 are all they list/sell on-line). I expect this oil to stay in the car till winter, which here in Mass means ambient temp of 0F to 100F. I'm thinking of mixing 1/2 10W30 and 1/2 15W50. What would YOU use??

Thanks for help with these newbie questions. This is our first MB, and we really love it!

jason64

e320wagon - I changed the oil on my e320 at 3k, using Volvoline 20w50 last year (before the Mobil 1 bullet was out). I bought the oil myself and my dealer charged me $18 for the filter and the labor - quite reasonable for a MB.

I understand it is a cardinal sin to mix oil with different viscosities, but that may not be the case for synthetics.

sfmartin

In the summer, I've been mixing 5w30 and 15w50 Mobil 1 in my '93 300zx twin-turbo, figuring that would approximate 10w40. No problems after nearly 8 years/52k miles.

drew_

Mercedes-Benz specifies and approves only Mobil 1 0W40 or 15W50 oil. Anything different will cause more engine blowby (due to the low friction rings) and hence is not recommended. An MB technician that I know recommended using 15W50 in the warm months, and 5W30 in the winter months. However, 15W50 is good down to -39 degrees C.


Drew
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aaron33

Dealer cannot locate banging noise coming from right rear deck when going over sharp bumps. Has anyone else experienced this problem? I'm 99% sure it is in the speaker / mount but dealer won't replace (still 4 mos of warranty, 24k miles). Car is 97 e420 w/ sport pkg but think any MB-e would have same rear speakers. Just in case any wiseguys, trunk is empty & all "spare" (lug wrench, tire) items stowed.

john319

I have done a couple of oil changes myself before the FSS schedule. There is a drain plug under the oil pan however you must remove a plastic engine shield from underneath to get to it. Make sure you have a large bucket to take the 8.5 quarts of oil coming out. I bought my oil filters on the net for less than $4 a piece. They are the canister type and located on top of the engine. I use Mobil 1 5w-30 and my dealer (in Mass as well) uses Mobil 1 0w-40. I felt the same way. 10k is way to long. Just couldn't sleep at night. Good luck.

rab5

Mercedes-Benz specifies and approves only oils that meet MBZ OEM Specification 229.1. This specification ( which defines allowable cam wear, ring wear,sludge,bore polishing, etc.) says oils that meet ACEA A2-96 or A3-96 are acceptable. Read specs on your favorite container of synthetic oil. My favorite oil, Redline 10-W30 synthetic, is formulated to meet A3-96, which therefore satisfies MBZ OEM Spec. 229.1, which therefore meets MBZ requirements for FSS/Synthetic.I have confirmed this with tech. folks at MBNA. Remember, not every oil has been tested by MBZ, and that's why they only give ACEC number, and NOT specific mfg. on OEM Spec. Sheet 229.1 for Passenger Car Engine Oils.

drew_

If I'm not mistaken, that has changed now (beginning March 2001) with MBUSA's new synthetic oil policy. Here's the info (specific oil brands and weights are specified).


As the message states: "Effective immediately, Mercedes Benz ONLY recommends the use of MB approved synthetic motor oil for all vehicle equipped with the Flexible Service Systems (FSS) as of model year 1998."

http://www.escribe.com/automotive/european/mbmc/m12279.html

Hope thie helps!

Drew
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jaliv

Perhaps you might wish to consider using Mobil's Delvac 1, 5W40. I have been running this year round without any adverse effects in my e320 wagon. Hope this is of some help.

rab5

And, MBZ approved synthetic oils are oils that meet MBZ OEM Specification 229.1, which says ACEA oils meeting A2-96 and A3-96 are acceptable.So said MBUSA upon my inquiry with MBUSA which was after receipt of the 23 March letter with regard to my use of synthetic Redline oil in my 1999 E320. I got a copy of MBZ Sheet 229.1 and 229.3 for Passenger Car Engine Oils.Look for ACEA A2-96 or A3-96 formulated synthetic oils. MBZ said my warrenty would remain valid using FSS with my use of my A3-96 formulated synthetic oil.

doublecon

thanks so much for the info on the extended warranty several weeks ago. I did call Lisa at curtesy motors in chico, ca and she did get me a good deal on the warranty at several hundred below listed price.

dcman2

chipper12,tomsky3:
Thanks for your feedback. Regarding the garager door opener, my salesperson says that if I take the remotes with me, the service folks should be able to program it. I'll see how that goes.

I am taking my 2001 E320 to the dealership tomorrow to have a CD changer installed. This was part of the deal. It's gonna be a trunk-mount. My question to you all is how do you feel about a trunk-mount CD changer? Did you wish you had an in-dash instead? I don't think in-dash is an option for these vehicles. I also don't think installation of a single CD player in-dash is an option.

macbest

Unless you have the Command option, an in dash CD is out of the question. You're stuck with the trunk mount.

On the ML, you do have an option (on the 320) of putting in a single in-dash CD player. I had it done on mine, and of course, use it 10x more than the CD changer which never seems to get changed out.