Air mass sensor has gone out twice, the fix was FREE from the dealer. But to save money on towing costs, buy one ($230) and keep it in the car to swap, using a screw driver.
A/C control lights went out, $6. plus $80 labor(scum).
Transmission needed to be rebuilt at 66k. DARN! just passed warranty! No word FREE here, cost $1700. Which is not bad considering what kind of transmission it is (5-speed auto with quick shift program).
Note: If you can, buy the dealer extended warranty.
This was truly built by AMG. The motor was taken apart and put back together by AMG.
You get what you pay for! Maybe even more than you'll ever know.
C36 AMG, have fun!
I own a 1996 C-36 AMG. Mileage was 92k when purchased about a year ago. Now has 102k. This has been the best car I have ever owned. It is equipped with the MUCH more reliable 4 speed auto trans. Handling is very sharp, turn in is good, and tracks like it is on rails. Power is quite strong, 268hp and 290ft-lb of torque. Power delivery is very smooth due to the high torque curve. To this point I have encountered none of the dreded wiring harness or MAF sensor issues, although it did require an ignition control module replacement.
As with all low production, rare cars, careful inspection is vital before buying. The cost to have the car checked by a competent tech is the best money you will ever spend.
This car is the first official product of AMG and Mercedes. It is of the highest build quality available at that time. The motor is completely hand assembled and tested by ONE person with a daily quota of ONE motor per day.
The car gives me a smile every time I drive it and well received wherever I take it. The value for money is great. The cars sold when new for $52,000, and the cars can be had for under $20,000. I paid $16,000 for mine in 9+ condition, mechanicly and cosmeticly. If one is patient and finds a good clean example, you can't go wrong with a C-36. Good luck!
Hey... Just wanted to ask why you switched from an NSX to a C36?
I bought my 97 C36 (with a lot of mileage! 145,000 miles!) 2 months ago & I'm very happy with it. It's mechanically & cosmetically perfect! But I found a 97 NSX with low mileage for a very reasonable price, $24,000...
Would you advise me to buy it or stick with C36?
Thanks.
I had a 1998 C230 (the basis for your car) for two years from new. It wasn't horribly unreliable, but it had things go wrong that simply shouldn't, like a power seat failing at 10K miles. Unacceptable for a Mercedes.
The mid-late 1990's until recently saw a dramatic decline in Mercedes quality as Mercedes tried to compete with Lexus and other Japanese brands while swallowing Chrysler.
My advice, assuming you don't need four doors, is to get rid of the C36 and get an NSX, a much more reliable car, tire issues aside.
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