1989 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560 SEL review from North America

A/C leaked freon.

Many oil leaks, my driveway gradually became *covered* in oil.

Power steering pump leaked, lost all its fluid in a week.

Fuel distributor failed at 170,000 miles, causing rough running and stalling. - $1200.

Suspension needed all new bushings.

Rear shock absorbers leaked, causing a bouncy ride.

Rear power windows failed.

Piston rings started wearing out at 175,000 miles, causing massive blue smoke.

I bought this car as my first car near my 18th birthday for $4000. I was lured in by the quality feel and the sterling Mercedes reputation.

However, suspension problems started to surface mere months after I purchased the car, with a clunk that occurred during acceleration; this gradually worsened to clunking over every bump and most turns.

The fuel distributor also went out, causing stalling and extremely rough running, which necessitated a $1200 repair.

Several fuel injectors went out, causing the highway fuel economy to go from 14 to 12, and the city to go from 12 to 8. Despite the car's thirst for fuel, it struggled to keep up with traffic even before the problems started.

After the piston rings wore out (causing a cloud of blue smoke every time I hit the pedal), I traded it in for $800 towards a 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis, sick of the 4 digit repair bills and appalling mpg. I will never buy a German car again.