2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S430 from North America

Summary:

Rust bucket!

Faults:

This car is a RUST bucket. It's starting to show electrical problems (dashboard lights flickering), lamps keep burning out (at $200 per light bulb!), problems notification turning on for a day and then vanishes.

General Comments:

Drives well and handles great. I love it but will never buy a car that costs so much and in 5 years you need to throw it away because of rust!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 22nd April, 2009

24th Apr 2009, 17:40

Rust bucket???....LOL

I personally have NEVER seen a contemporary MBZ S Class in North America with the rust you mention. Or any rust as a matter of fact.

Where exactly on the car is this rust you speak of? You failed to mention where and how much exactly.

Why did you not have the car inspected before buying it? Sounds like you should be more upset with yourself than the car.

Have it repaired or sell it and get something else, but it won't be as nice unless it's another S Class BENZ!

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2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S320L 3.2V6 from Hong Kong

Summary:

A car not only for rich & famous

Faults:

A/C Pump replaced in 2007. Airmatic pump replaced 2008.

General Comments:

This is the most reliable car I have ever owned. The running cost is low (compare w/other full size cars). You can see the rich and famous in Hong Kong using this car, although the design is 10 years old. Most are in top touch condition.

It is very very crucial to have the car checked every six months. The repair cost can be greatly reduced if following regular check ups.

The V6 is good for Hong Kong, but for Europe and America, the V8 or V12 are a big plus.

I am a little disappointed with the interior quality, but the 2003 face lifted versions already changed that. The built quality is far better than BMW and Lexus of the same period, but, in my opinion, can be improved.

This is by far the most comfortable car for passengers. My friends w/Bentley & Rolls do not feel a big difference in ride quality (back seat, if you have a long version S class) w/their cars which cost 2 to 4 times more than the long version S class.

The V6 is extremely fuel efficient on the expressway. The trip computer shows about 8.5L/100KM. For city driving, it is more than doubled.

V6 is a little noisy but very smooth & responsive at under 100 KM/Hr. If you are a big spender must get the V8 or V12, and it can further experience the ride quality of this S class.

The stiffness of the suspension can have 3 different settings. Even my new S350L does not have that feature, and the S class does have a softer ride for standard setting. Larger wheels for this car will only lessen the quality of ride.

This is a recommended car for families and businesses.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th December, 2008

30th Sep 2010, 02:37

I agree totally with this article, but you must have a very reliable workshop to work on this car, otherwise, it can be very expensive to own this car.

I suggest using extra high quality oil for this car. For example, Voltronic 5W40 German motor oil, and the car can actually feel lighter and more responsive, as the 3.2 V6 is a small engine for this full size German sedan.

This car will not last as long as the W140, but can easily last for quarter of a million km if taken care of properly.

I also fully recommend this car!

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2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S430 8 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Overpriced

Faults:

It is a nice car but too many problems for this type of car.

Seatbelt restraining system did not work had to replace it

The driver seat heater did not work.

The paint on the driver side and rear door and the rear passenger side door is bubbling from the inside this ca was never in a accident and is a defect from the factory, however Mercedes refuses to repair it,

I am sure this is the last MB I will ever own to may problems for the price tag.

The columb cover between the front and rear doors had to be replaced also.

General Comments:

The cost of this car is not worth the problems I have had with it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 30th September, 2008

11th May 2009, 12:55

If everything you stated were the only type of problems you were having, I'd be very happy in your position. Other people have bought high end sedans and are having to replace very major mechanical/electrical components that directly affect the safety or drivability of their vehicle. You have a solid car, be happy with it.