1989 Mercedes-Benz W124 200e from Singapore - Comments

2nd Apr 2002, 21:14

"A remarkable vehicle and a classic model"

What things have gone wrong with the car?

235,000km - Replace auto-transmission gasket / filter and lower arm suspension ball-joint. Pls check condition as I hv been left stranded by the road side.

237,000km - Replace autotransmission hoses.

240,00km - replace air-con piping due leakage.

Due to old age, normal wear and rear is expected.

General comments?

Unlike the previous car that I owned, this is one solidly built car.

Most switches are still working considering that this car is close to 13 yrs old.

Performance wise, would wish it could be faster as my previous was a Honda civic SIR with a blistering performance to match. Sadly, the bodywork is not much to be desired as it is too soft and easily dented unlike the mercedes which is built like a tankmobile.

Over all, am satisfied with the qlty of this vehicle and feel that a new coat of paint would obviously enhance the beauty of this classic W124 model.


4th Nov 2002, 05:13

Why not paint the car yourself? using 2pack paint is childsplay and you don't need an oven. go- on I have and it's a brill job!


24th Nov 2003, 00:37

Hi everyone!! Just to update on my 1989 Mercedes 200e mechanical parts which requires changing / repair as follows :

250,000km - Need to change the air-con evaporator coil and blower unit.

265,000km - Need to change the hydraulic tappets and timing chain.

Trust that these repairs are part and parcel of wear and tear for an old vehicle.

Presently, vehicle still going strong at 275,000km and very reliable. Also, interior cabin of car still weathering the hot humid climate in Singapore well and to top it up, this vehicle is still quiet with little annoying squeaks despite almost 15 years of service.

A truly exceptional 124 model car indeed.


1st Mar 2004, 21:04

Just an update on my vehicle at 285,000km as at 2/3/2004. Heard thumping sound at the rear suspension whenever I get to speed above 60mph and especially on rough road surfaces. Went to the mechanic and was told that the suspension arm and bushing have worn off and replacement is required. Change a total of 10 trust arm and 4 bushing (i.e 5 trust arm and 2 bushing per side) and vehicle is now handling perfectly. Note, four wheel computer alignment must be carried out after the change in order to ensure proper balancing on the 4 wheels and also to avoid risk of premature tyre wear and tear.

Total cost of repair at Singapore dollar S$750 i.e approx USD450. Although I can say that cost in maintaining an older Mercedes is now going to be somewhat higher due fair wear and tear, however, this change have given my Mercedes a new found confidence when approaching sweeping bends as it now sticks onto the road far better than I can imagine.

I would recommend to everyone who has the same problem. Thanks for reading.


27th Oct 2004, 22:16

To update, this car have just reached its' 310,000km mark. Apart from the normal service, have just changed the water pump and 2 rear axle rubber mounts because of a thumping sound whenever the car moves off from stationary position. Total cost approx Singapore $500.

Whilst the engine is running great, I am somewhat puzzled as to the fact that the tachometer always dropped to very low levels and immediately goes up again when ever the air con compressor starts up. Does this mean that the compressor need to be replaced? Anyone facing such problem which care to advise?.

Current prices of new cars are going pretty cheap in Singapore (not world standard perhaps due many taxes / fees car owners need to pay here) and may people have ask the question why not change to another vehicle. Whilst I am tempted to lounge within the comfort of a new car and a 3 yr warranty on vehicle parts, however, this grand old dame have been consistently reliable and have still not given me any major reason to go for a replacement vehicle.

Mercedes sure did a good job for their W124 model. It is truly a remarkable workhorse!!!

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