Constant overheating resulted in tightening of head. That didn't solve it. Replaced thermostat. No difference. Finally replaced water pump and now works fine. Spent nearly $1500 to have same shop resolve the problem.
A/C fan in dash began whining on & off, eventually a constant high pitch. Bought blower motor new on Internet site. New mechanic pulled dash and discovered the motor was not the same as was ordered but a tiny black fan. Total replacement @$700.00 and I have a blower motor ready for replacement.
Botched wiring when Japanese radio was originally put in leading to shorts in courtesy lights, console lights don't work. Stereo wiring is stictly for MB products.
This is a JDM (lhd) car imported in 2006. The body after 16 years was near perfection. Everything appeared original in and out, over and under. A trip to Las Vegas in July in 45 degree Celsius may have been the start of the overheating problems.
This car still draws looks and comments 18 years on. Great WOW factor.
The ride is velvet smooth, power is subtle and doing 140 KPH is effortless and quiet. The 4Matic only occasionally engages even in a Canadian Rocky Mtn winter. Only indicator is the warning light that AWD is on.
Mileage is a surprise as we get the equivalent of 30-32 MPG (Imperial gallon) combined in warmer months and 25 mpg in winter.
Owner Update:
This vehicle has turned into an expensive near-nightmare: Only 136000 kms on it and already it's needed a head gasket, front rotors and pads, alternator and now the most recent and expensive repair - new self-leveling system replacement. The struts (also referred to as pistons or shocks) are shot and will cost @$800 each plus labour. Also, hydraulic accumulators for each side plus the hydraulic lines. All told about $3000 for repair. Then there's the front.. new steering link and ball joints, and once again, leaking head gasket ($1500 the last time) and possibly the transfer case ($4000) due to the leaking hydraulic system, all interconnected.
The local mechanic says the Japanese imports are notorious for repairs because they are not maintained in Japan, due to the low mileage and the disposal of these vehicles before they hit 100,000 kms.
Buyer beware!!!
We have owned the exact same model for years and have put around 50K on it, and it has been outstanding. Only minor repairs like radiator, shocks, brake pads, etc. When the tires wore out, I replaced both wheels and tires with recent C-class purchased on Ebay. These were a direct bolt-on, and the ride and appearance is considerably improved. The car now has around 190K and we plan to keep her as long as possible.
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