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Fri 21 Feb 2014 18:59

Mercedes - Have they solved the rust issues? - wagonwheels

I'm currently looking at new (to me!) cars and I keep on coming back to the C Class and E Class - 2005>2007 with my budget, and likely a diesel. There's just something about Mercs that appeal to me, plus I'll be doing plenty of long journeys so want to ride in style and comfort!

But on my travels I've seen many a rusty old C and E Class (04 was the newest one from memory) - front and rear wings, tailgates being the main areas I've spotted. What I want to know is have Mercedes solved the rust issues since the supposed shake up in 2005/2006? I've tried asking at a main dealer but couldn't get a straight answer!

Yes I know I'll be looking at getting a car that will be towards 10years old and accept the odd small rust spot, but you see many other brands that stand the test of time well rust-wise. I don't want to buy a lemon that will blister with rust spots, as I plan on keeping it for around 3years.

Thanks in advance for all replies.

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Fri 21 Feb 2014 20:58

Mercedes - Have they solved the rust issues? - gordonbennet

From about 2006 they are supposed to be galvanized, however the C class you refer to was replaced in 2008 and the new model i would happily buy.

E class was extensively revised at facelift point again about 2006, but check any car you are interested in is indeed a facelift and not an earlier car regd a long time after build.

Indeed facelift W211 E class is recognised as being a very good car indeed, not only from corrosion, but thelectrical problems the earlier cars suffered with were sorted, and more importantly the idiot SBS braking system of the pre facelift cars was dropped.

You could do far worse than find yourself a late as possible W 211 E 220CDi, a private hire owner i know usually sells his on when they clock over 400k with very little if any trouble at all, though exceptionally maintained, or a 08 on C Class.

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Fri 21 Feb 2014 21:10

Mercedes - Have they solved the rust issues? - wagonwheels

Thank you.

I did read on another recent thread here, about high mileage Merc diesels (also mentioned on how to recognise a facelift W211), so it's looking like a facelift W211 may fit the bill.

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