Cruise control kicked off irregularly: replaced the cruise control module and no further problems.
Door lock vacuum plungers replaced once.
Replaced power window regulators once.
Replaced power antenna motor twice.
Replaced automatic climate control regulator at 260,000 miles.
Alternator replaced every 100,000 miles.
Added a block heater at ~350,000 miles to overcome the cold winters in the Northeast US.
No breakdowns in 25 years, and the engine has never been opened.
The car, while seemingly slow to accelerate, handles incredibly well with great cornering and, at 5450 pounds, provides a very smooth ride at all speeds, regardless of road condition.
Steady fuel mileage of 35mpg, both in-town and highway: this is a very inexpensive vehicle to maintain and drive. With the large fuel tank, I can easily drive 700 miles between refuelings.
Due to the cold winters in Upstate New York, my old 300CD has retired to our winter place in Key West. I only drive her 3-4 times per year, but still enjoy this car more than any I've ever owned.
I am in upstate NY and thinking of buying this car. I need advice. I need it to start reliably in the winter. Is anti-freezing agents enough? I don't have access to a garage or an outlet for a block heater. Please write me at j1greene@skidmore.edu. Thanks for any feedback.