Faults:

Rubber pull tag that opens the bonnet snapped.

Did not start once.

Odometer never worked.

One power window stopped working.

General Comments:

I paid $4000 for this car, and it was in immaculate condition. An outback car that had no rust, had been perfectly maintained with log books, a minor oil leak and slightly saggy driver's seat.

I use it as a daily drive, and drive to Sydney (900km return) about once a month.

Once every two months I drive to Grafton (800km return) and also around other country towns on weekends.

I've worn out a set of tyres, brake pads, and also had it serviced regularly.

I hit a Kangaroo one night, smashed the left headlight, and no other damage. Cost me 90 bucks on Ebay to replace.

Got hit by a hailstorm; every other car in the car park was dented badly, and I had one minor ding.

This has been a pleasure to drive; economical, plenty of power and a great outback car. It does not rattle!!! Every other car I've owned rattles (comes from driving on corrugated roads). This thing is an antique, and is as solid as a rock.

In handling, comfort, economy, and running costs, this is the best car I have ever owned, BUT it has been well looked after and I have done the same.

A fabulous car.

Faults:

Brakes squeak (dealer said it's a common problem on these models, and is nothing major).

General Comments:

Smooth and VERY powerful. Air suspension absorbs bumps very well and it handles nicely.

The cabin consists of nappa leather, sound system is great, everything in good working order. Has a lot of gadgets to fiddle with in the car.

Overall, a huge improvement on the W210 E class and w211 pre facelift models.

Mine being the post face lift model, there have been some minor changes in interior and exterior. 5L engine replaced with the new 5.5L; surprisingly much better!

Faults:

Alternator (80000km).

Spark plugs (80000km).

Left front fog light blown.

Spark plugs.

General Comments:

The E430 is a beautiful car. Apart from the things that have gone wrong with the car, it has proven to be reliable for its age. Have had nothing serious that has gone wrong with the car. All electrics work fine, air con is fine, no serious problems whatsoever.

The car offers plenty of power, and is comfortable and feels prestigious for a car of its age.

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

I bought it last January this year for A$14,400. This car not only looks good (at least for me!) but is also comfortable on short and long distance travel. I am amazed on how little fuel it needs for such a relatively heavy vehicle. Then again, it is not capable of a ferocious acceleration. Before I owned this car, I was under the impression that it guzzles fuel, costs heaps on maintenance. So far, I had the 135,000 log book service for $233.00 (with NRMA Motoserve).

My only complaint is the occasional squeak in the cabin when hitting bumps on the road. Sounds like plastic, but I couldn't locate it. It's a 13 year old car in a relatively very good condition so I guess I shouldn't be complaining.

Otherwise, just fill her up with fuel and point it where I want to go and I'll be there.

Faults:

Normal wear and tear, mostly under the car as expected for mileage and age. Always serviced by a specialist european cars mechanics who are very dedicated in Wellington, New Zealand called Page European (2003) Ltd.

Highly recommended as they service BMW's, Audis, Mercedes and Volvos (I used to take my BMW there too)

Wheel bearings, brake pads/disk, tyres.

Shaft drive rubber coupling, rear and front.

Power steering (2) hoses (leaked).

General Comments:

Very extremely reliable car as it still drives like a new vehicle, considering it's 20 years old.

The engine and transmission has never been reconditioned and still runs extremely well. Very roomy for luggage.

My one has the lovely burgundy leather seats/interior, and I fitted the later model wooden trims from another 300E on the doors and dashboard, as mine missed out on them as being the earlier model looks great too, and also fitted the clear front indicators and chrome fender trim around the guards.

I'm very impressed with this station wagon Mercedes.