Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

bargamon2

YOu have a 2001 model right? Thanks

turbotc

Have you guys ever steamed cleaned your engine. I do it on my other cars a lot but am afraid to do it on my E320. Dealer charges $199 which includes detailing the car and engine cleaning. i was wondering if it is safe to do it. i rather do it myself if thats the case. I normally use the foamy spray cans you can buy at Autozone or Pep Boys.

bargamon2

Why do we "Steam" clean engine, when steam is never used anymore???? just a thought.

I have a power washer and would love to (low pressure using chemical feed) get in and clean engine. Just sold old car, so not needed. Mechanic mentioned so long as you stay away from back of bay, stuff (and unstuff when done!) air intake, you should be ok. but the Drew-meister Is most likely the man to finish this subject with better details. Keep us posted! Caw tawking now!

turbotc

I don't mean clean it with steam. I meant you know spray the degreaser on and hose it off. Steam Clean is just a term I guess. Dealer advertised the same "Steam Clean".

parfive1

Look back on part 6, posts #552, #568, and #571.
Fred132 and I were having a discussion regarding the installation of cd changers.
He installed an MB changer, and I installed a Becker.

Yes, my radio is also a Becker, look on your radio card. If the serial # starts with BE then it's a Becker.
No coding was necessary. It started right up and all steering wheel controls and dash controls work perfectly.

E430..cool

bargamon2

Turbo, thats what I mean, Steam! funny.

Parfive, I'll look into it. Thanks.

ctic

BTW, congrats on your car. Having followed your posts in multiple forums I know you got what you really wanted.

bargamon2

Technical question. While the CD changer can work with out a dealer link into the onboard computer, is it possible for it to work without the benefit of the optical hook-up.. In that is it possible for mercedes to have the changer adaptable for both configurations??? One hardwired and one thru optic??

parfive1

MB has only the fiber optic cables for cd hookups.
No other prewiring (standard wires) are there.
You probably could have somebody install a cheaper cd changer and run regular wires, but then you would lose the ability to use steering wheel and dash controls plus you'd need a completely separate control for the the cd mounted somewhere in your car. (That would be pretty ugly)
MB tells me that they went to the fiber optic system because it provides a better sound quality.
Does music through fiber optics sound better than music though regular wires? Beats me, I can't tell any difference.
It does, or at least did, make it harder to find after market cd changers for the 00 and 01 MB's, therefore forcing people to pay MB's high price for their units. Hmmmm
When I bought my 00 E320 late last summer, this was one point that I was very vocal about.
I didn't mind the price of the car, I thought it was worth it. I did however, resent the price of certain extra's that were marked up just because of the MB star.
I suppose it's just like everything else. If they think you got money, they'll charge you more.

bargamon2

Read all the posts? Wow! Good luck with your new car.

parfive1

Regarding suspension.
I noticed the same thing. Car rides higher. Tires don't really fill wheel wells. (Even w/17")
Would like to lower mine a little if it didn't cost much. Otherwise I'll get used to it.
Congrats on new car.

fred132

I do indeed have a 2001. No dealer service was required for the CD install.

dunninla

Yes, I am trying to reach my service guy at my regular dealer, as the Service guy at the Mercedes of South Bay where I bought the car said they don't and wouldn't lower the car at all. I'll check with MBUSA to see if lowering it violates the warranty in any way. I'd like to lower it so that it has clearance just like the new S class...about 2.5" instead of the E's 3.5". I have also noticed on the drive to work today the the BMW and Cadillac STS have less clearance over the wheels than the E, they look more like the S-class.

Just off the phone with Globe Tire. These guys do at least 5 MBZ per day with new wheels and tires. Sales Guy said I could go 2 ways:

1. Mercedes has the springs mounted on pads, and there are 4 sizes. He said if I'm lucky, Size #4 is installed, and he can swap it out for Size #1, lowering about .75" and costing around $100.00 Only way to tell is to get it up into the air and see.

2. If #1 doesn't work, they can change out for new springs, lowering anywhere from .5" to 1.25" for around $550.00.

wniel

doublecon- Regarding your post regarding dealers who will deal. I recently posted regarding the same topic outlining my experience in ordering a new 2000 Brilliant Silver E430 last March. In Southern Calif, these cars were hard to come by, especially will all of the options that I wanted including zenon lights and voice activated phone. I checked with two three different dealers in the area and found the best deal near my home in Laguna Niguel. I went to the dealership there and negoitated a price of 2300 below MSRP which other dealers wouldn't touch. The car was ordered and built with all of my options and I received it three months later. I have been very satisfied with the service there including my ML320 which I did not buy there. If more info is needed, please feel free to contact me direct.
Wally

aling

Just a reminder that the S-class has the Airmatic air suspension system. When the vehicle is turned off, I believe it goes to its lowest setting. This may be why it appears that the wheel wells appear the way they do.

The Airmatic system can raise (2 different additional heights from the normal setting ) the car for higher ground clearance, ex. for snow. FYI, the S-class does lower itself above 120 kph for better aerodynamics.

If you lower the car, you will have less suspension travel, and road imperfections can be a lot more noticable. Keep in mind that the under carriage will also be closer to the ground and more vulnerable to debris.

Drew/aling
Townhall Community Leader/Vans Conference

taison

What is the kind of screwdriver or wrench necessary to remove the metal casing of the bulbs. It looked hexagonal, but not like an allen wrench. Anyone know the exact size?

turbotc

I used my fingers, no tools neded throughout the whole process.

parfive1

It's probably a "tork" screw. You can buy a set of tork drivers at any hardware store. Not expensive.

hlsjr

I've recently taken delivery of an 01- E 320 4 matic wagon and love this car having traded a 98' Audi A-6 wagon. Does anyone have experience with swapping out the standard leather covered steering wheel for a leather and wood wheel shown in the option brochure? Also, any thoughts on the chrome headlight rings?

doublecon

thanks for the post #377. i like the favor of knowing more about your purchase strategy - how, with whom, etc. did you buy off the lot or did you order? any additional info/advice is appreciated.

jean7of9

If you are replacing the bulbs only then you do not/not need a screw driver. Look behind the light assembly, you will notice the back is sealed with a plastic cover with two metal clamps.Just push each clamp sideway to free the cover. Remove the cover. Look inside for the bulbs.

jean7of9

I purchased the chrome headlight rings from the dealer. Actually they are made of good quality plastics on the outside with a self adhesive tape on the inside. The kit includes a drawing for easy installation within minutes. Once installed, they provide the E with the nice retro look of old classic MB's such as 280S. They come in sets of four, hence if one is dented you will need to buy all four again.
Jean

jean7of9

Posting 393 is for hlsjr. Sorry doublecon.
Jean

2kc5

Enjoyed reading about your upgrades and it seems we have similar taste. I have a 2000 E320 in Brilliant Silver and I have added the chrome headlight trim rings I bought at gapa.com and it really finished the look of the front end. I am also a Zaino advocate and have about 5 coats on the E now. I am considering the exact wheel upgrade as you with the AMG 17". Did the ones you buy come from MB? Are they the same as the models sold at tirerack? How much would the package have cost you without trading in your stock wheels and tires? I'm thinking that this tire/wheel combo gives the more aggressive appearance of the E55.
Your feedback is appreciated.

dunninla

Gentlemen,

I dealt with Esther Wolfe at South Bay MB. Got the car off the lot and dealt with the showroom finance department to sign the lease. She can sell it for much less than a non-Internet sales person, and I still got the attention I needed. No special order at the price I got.

The chrome 17"x8.5 AMG Monoblocks were $405 each, and the Dunlops were $140 each mounted and balanced. TireRacks prices were actually higher on the wheels, lower on the tires. I don't think Globe Tire is outside LA at all, so suggest you call TireRack and let them know the competitive prices out in the market. AMG is made by & owned by Mercedes, so yes, they are Mercedes wheels.

BTW, Zainoed the car yesterday. Surprising how many paint surfaces are not that visible: lower bumpers, inside doors, inside trunk lid etc...but I was determined to cover everything. I also applied the gapa headlamp rings. I am considering finding MB floormats that are darker than the factory supplied java color, which are very light for car carpet. I will try to find a dark taupe to match the dash. Not much to do now except enjoy the driving.

Drew, thanks for the tip on suspension. I will investigate that issue carefully.

very_likeable

I am interested in buying a 2001 E320. A couple of years ago I drove a new E320 and noticed a slight delay in engine response when pressing the gas pedal. I've read a lot on the C-class forum regarding it. Is this pause still noticeable on the new E320's? If so, do you get used to it?

parfive1

Another site you might want to check out is
aczwheels.com, they offer the AMG line. I can't remember what the pricing was though.
I ended up going with the MB 5 spoke style F 17", right out of the MB catalogue. I think these are the ones that come standard with the E430 sport. Bought them from the dealer for $1390 plus tax.
They're sitting in my basement right now because I have my winter tires on. (bummer)
Whatever you choose, the 17" rim gives the E class a much sportier look and IMO worth the money.

mbdriver

jean7of9 - Too bad you bought the headlight rims from the dealer. If you didn't get a discount, you probably paid $157.00. Try www.gapa.com for the same items (without the MB logo on the box) at approximately $56 or $57.

jean7of9

Thanks for the advise, I did not know about GAPA before. Meanwhile I mind you that When USA origin parts are shipped to Canada, we pay an extra healthy shipping charge, then we are blessed by Canada Customs which really "favors" us with additional 18% duty on invoice. The final price may not always be competitive to the dealer. One recent example: The Hella Xenon bulbs originally priced at US$28.50 ended up costing US$51.00 after shipping + Customs Charges and exchange rate.
Jean

jean7of9

Ron, I am driving E320 4m since more than two years and never felt a more noticeable response delay than other car, except Porsche or the like. In fact I find the new drive-by -wire more responsive than previous MB's with the added advantage to read and execute your wish instantly. New off dealers MB's may experience some throttle delay due to "New Engine Condition". This delay will disappear after few thousand miles when engine become smoother and quiter. The drive-by-wire System is so successful that it is adopted by other manufacturers including VW.
Jean

aling

What!? You mean Canada customs taxed you for something costing only US$28+? That's outrageous! In the past, anything CDN$60 and would've been let though. Perhaps labelling the item as a gift makes the big difference. The last thing I bought from the US was a deflector for my ML (CDN$91) and I did have to pay the sales tax + handling +brokerage.

Drew
Townhall Community Leader/Vans Conference

greasykid1

Because of the drive by wire system if you brake with your left foot & do not remove it immediately before accelerating there willbe a pause. The system sees it as a conflict of "stop & go". If you brake with your right foot , no problem.

mbdriver

Jean -

Wow! I agree with Drew -- outrageous! Almost makes "manifest destiny" seem like an attractive eventuality!

Paul

jason64

I posted this question a while ago and I don't think I received the correct response: the front brakes on My 01 E320 makes a "eh" noise at the last moment of braking - when the front end of the car lifts itself back, also, when the brake is released from a stop. I've heard the same noise from other manufacturers' car with automatic transimission (cars with manual transimission tend not to have the same condition because you can disengage the transmission from the forward motion during braking). This is NOT a sharp grinding noise between metal parts. My dealer already tried to clean the brakes and lube the sway bar, but that didn't help. This is the same noise when your car is stopped on an incline and if you momentarily release the brakes, the car's front end tends to make that "eh" noise. Does anybody have the same experience? Your comments are much appreciated. BTW, my car now has 1800 miles and it starts to make this noise since day 1. Will this condition disappear after the brakes are "broken-in"?

turbotc

if you go thru a new MB every 2 years then why not lease? That way you don't have to deal with selling your car and just hand them back the keys.

chang4

I finally purchased the Xenon retro kit for 1,271
(shipping included) I am very excited about it, but do have some concerns. From what I understand, these headlamps are self adjusting, so if you overload your trunk, you won't blind oncoming traffic. I was wondering if anyone out there who has done the installation on their Benz, had any trouble installing the sensory unit to the front axle? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

taison

Thanks for all the tips on how to change the bulbs. It was pretty easy after reading everything written here. That's the beauty of the internet communities.

taison

Has anyone tried changing the bulbs for the fog lights? Does anyone know how difficult that is?

turbotc

taison,

I haven't changed the fog lights on my E but I am guessing it can't be too hard. I have changed them on my previous cars (300zx, Intrepid, ES300) and they were very easy. No need to purchase them from dealer. You can buy GE or Philips from auto parts store, unless they don't carry them then go back to dealer. Most like you need to be lying on the ground at the front bumpers to do it.

41864,

Do you have pictures of your wheels? if so post them, I may be interested in buying them if you wanna get rid of them.

41864

Yes I would like to get rid of them. I will get a picture posted as soon as I can.

bargamon2

For 12 years I have been using a product line I really like. Check out:

http://www.duragloss.com/

Story is similar to zaino, I have spoken to owner and chief waxmeister many years ago, and was impressed. The products are all excellent, easy to use, and interior dressings smell great.

I have no affiliations with them other than being a consumer.

E-430 with 176 miles on it. Gas mpg 15mpg, driving like an old man on prozac till break in period done. Fed the cows with a leather treatment. Very impressed with interior build quality. Im getting Disc changer in a few days, Saleman getting it at dealer cost $525. I have bought two new cars in 6 mos from him, and reffered two friends whom also bought. I think im getting treated pretty good, and he is increasing sales. Win-win, they way its is supposed to be. Gapa.com seems to have best price on lens rings, $75 compared to $99 at clairs. Gapa has cd changer for $550. Excellent price. Clairs was $580 plus $75 for mounting kit. Kevin at Clairs is great and I am not bashing them, Im sure they could match some prices. also, while I never had a problem with them, im sure kevin would be great if you had to return somethinl..Gapa.com I don't think sells mounting kit, but a box that someone here mentioned ealier works well and requires no mounting as it fits snug. If Im wrong, please correct whom ever wrote the post.
Only thing I add/change is shift knob, I like the all wood one, and add a chrome ring around shifter. Precisi0n sells the ring, airpress sells a chrome bezel for back seat vent and ashtray. they show a wood insert in ashtray insert. Not much aftermarket stuff for E class compared to other models. Does not need much.

Only thing im miffed at is no reading lamps for rear passangers. My kids love to read at night and really used the ones in my s-class and presently use the ML lights when in that vehicle.
Dome light not the same. I believe the only way to get the lights was to get parktronic option as it was bundled in that option group. could also use lights under foot wells in front too. Ml lights up very elegant at night and I cannot imagine these two items costing more than $5 per car!
I love the hydrolic lift on the duel level console lid. an example of possible over enginering and extreme level of attention to details. Car is so dam close to perfection, that when my 9 year old asks where is reading lamp I was surprised it was not there. I can't check everyting?? Dome light could have been configured for reading lamps. Audi a6 has a great set up. Ok, given the choice, Im still taking the E430! Love that engine!

thor8

Post #312, your complaint about tapping lifters, it was not a big deal it would have cleared up most likely but now that is academic, in order to replace the lifters the head has to be removed and new gaskets installed, the fact that it started to leak tells me the job was not done properly, all the surfaces have to be properly prepared, no sealer and proper torque and sequence has to be followed, mercedes are made with very close tolerances and attention to detail is important, it takes an intelligent mechanic who is also not lazy and willing to make that extra effort to be precice, that is the reason why so many repairs jobs are fouled up in an MB, I have seen it so many times a repair is made and afterwards more problems were created at the end they wash their hands off and blame it on the car, No it is defective, Yeah, rigth.

llparker

The '00 E-class does have the contrasting seat piping, at least with the charcoal interior.

llparker

Someone mentioned the C/D test last year -- rwd E320, awd E320, fwd A6, rwd A6. You might want to read it. Except for starting out, the rwd E320 outperformed the awd E320 in snow -- stopped shorter, turned better, cornered better.

bargamon

Actual price from dealer was like $680, about same as Clairs (includes mounting kit). Dealer originaly mentioned lower price but that was for glove mounted C class unit. HIs honest mistake.

I ordered from GAPA.com and got the unit and the mount box for $607 ($450 for mercedes changer,
$45 for box)includes shipping. On website they quote $54 for shipping. I called and ordered by phone and they only charged me $12.

Gapa.com mentioned that parts manager at flectcher jones in CA. designed cd mount box. Appears its saves on labor and improves mount.

Nothing beats a good mount!

jean7of9

If Canada Customs burden is limited to money only, it would be almost OK because I did escape the local sales tax of (16%) imposed on anything here except a death certificate (I paid 16% over the total value of the car of $76k). I think the long delay in holding the package until it is processed (one week at Customs)is more outrageous. I am still grateful to them for leaving the plastic package sealed and the bulbs "untouched" by any customette hand. By the way MB called to confirm that the back covers for the light assembly arrived from Germany. The existing covers do not seal tightly and cause humidity to infiltrate into the light assembly with condensation on the from crystal. Since they know now that the bulbs are not their's, it is going to be a test to find out what fall within the warranty. I will keep you posted.
Jean

taison

What retaining bracket are you referring to about the back cover? I found that in order to remove the back cover, all I had to do was turn it a little and it removed. It was like a screw on cap.

turbotc

yes you are right. mine was only a black round screw on cover like 3 inches diameter. So you install yours already taison? was it easy?

mbdriver

I'm even more amazed! You pay 16% sales tax? But, then, you also receive free medical coverage, so perhaps it's a wash. But 16%? Wow!!!

albell

Anyone have experience with the MB Babysmart seats? Are they better or worse than other car seats? I am sick to death of my 3-year-old's current seat (a Century, I think) and will need to upgrade soon to a child/booster type. The flexibility of occasionally putting him up front is appealing. Thanks.

P.S. have had my wagon for 5 months and 6k miles. It's a wonderful machine. Can't wait 'til it snows!