Mercedes 2004 e220 cdi w211 65k - help?! Is it reliable?

[sxg88]

hi all, my first post!

Could I ask your advise...

I'm looking at a Mercedes e220 cdi 2004 Auto elegance 65k.

Is it reliable? I've read that it has electrical niggles, however if I give the car a full check over for any faults (check every single button) then with the age, should I be safe?

Would you suggest that this car is a good reliable family car?

I would buy a c class but the seats don't fold down....

P.s it is this car or a vow Jetta, very different car I know, but I have my reasons.

Thank you in advance

[Thankyou4calling]

Yes is the answer

[Orchid1]

I'd try and get a 2006 facelifted car if you can they are far more reliable.

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/mercedes-benz...

[AC43]

I've been running a 2005 W211 (500) for the last 6 years and have taken it from 90k to 140k.

It's the earlier (pre-facelift) one and it does throw up the odd electrical wobbly but is otherwise reliable.

I regularly use it on long distance runs.

[Biggles111]

I have a 2003 211 e220 cdi on 170k miles with full history. Touch wood it has been utterly reliable. Up to 50mpg on a run so low running costs in a premium car. If they are looked after they just go on.

Weak points are SBC brake system on earlier models can time out, this can be reset but ideally find one that has been replaced. Radiator can leak coolant into the gearbox, gear change should be good. They are heavy cars, check for suspension knocks, this is not an expensive fix.
Parts availability is excellent, with a choice of OEM or reasonable pattern parts.

Whilst a facelifted car is a nice option, a good early car is also worth considering as they can be exceptional value.

[Monkeylegend]

Just to add to the above, this was around the end of the "rust" era so check carefully for cover ups. Other than that I had an '03 car that I did 312k miles in with no major issues.

Servicing is key, and make sure the transmission fluid changes have been done.