Faults:

The car was running beautifully - in my case ignorance was bliss. Then after two years of enjoyment.. the problems started. AC stopped working 100%. Reverse started slipping. Passenger seat (power) up right stopped working (you can still power it back - just not up!)

I really should have taken the time to learn more about my car. But before I did:

I changed out the transmission.

I put new struts and shocks all the way around.

I had the alternator replaced.

I switched to 18" AMG wheels and Pzero Pirelli tires.

Next up will most likely be that "bio-degradable" wire harness I am learning about!

I must say though that the interior looks brand new. The previous owner passed it down to his daughter (who of course didn't want her daddy's car).

The mileage is still way low for an 18 year old car.

I think all I had to do for the tranny was make sure the fluid was filled up - my loss, $2300.00 for a new transmission.

General Comments:

Interior is amazing.

Ride is ambassador smooth.

Speed at higher RPM's is respectable.

With aftermarket rims/tires, this car still jumps out at people and handles very well.

I just wish that the clear coat on these cars could stand up better in the Southern California sun.

Faults:

Water leak - top of radiator.

Hole in petrol tank filler tube to tank weld (common problem).

Stained rear seats.

Throttle cable frayed at engine end.

Fluctuating revs (possible vacuum leak)

Bonnet release lever just snapped in my hand under normal use-age.

Central locking was intermittent.

Oil leak from somewhere (another common problem)

Who knows what's happening / happened to the wiring loom that Merc decided to track past the top of the engine causing cracking / solidifying of the wiring - another common problem, this time a potentially very expensive one.

General Comments:

It drives like a big heavy car, although with this comes a good turning circle, for turning around and going home after the thing breaks down maybe.

It is fast when you put your foot down, although the fuel reserves are being used up in the process.

It has a big boot area, which folds down totally flat - I am impressed by that - even the rear seats are flat down, so the area is massive, without a 'lip' at the back like most hatchbacks and some estate cars - so you can slide things into the boot area easily.

Over engineering can be a problem when things go wrong mechanically - so maybe get a pro in to check it over before potentially wasting money on an old money pit.