fernando.

I'm currently looking at a few 1997-2000 Mercedes-Benz C230's with 150k-200k km's (95k-125k miles) to use as a winter beater.

Do I need someone to set me straight? I was always under impression that these older Merc's are just full of electrical gremlins and are just awful to repair and keep up with maintenance. My dad and I do all our own on work on the cars we own at home, so doing actual repairs don't scare me. I'm just wondering if they're genuinely bad cars like most people try to pass them as.

itsnoe30

Not too crazy. The ones I would stay away from are early-mid 2000s

TWF

Some can be painful while others are great
Don't know about C230 but I had 98 SL500 which did not give me any problems. Replaced it with cls63 which has 55k miles with not single issue.
Go to benz world and spend some time reading about model and year you looking for, some years may be better than others.

Saki GT

Its a beater, so as long as you can keep it running mechanically, I'd think you could live with any electrical issues.

I had an Audi as a beater, ran it up to 250k mi and it was still as solid as a tank - not a single rattle, great mechanical bits, but the electronic items were mostly shot. Heated seats worked though, and it was still a German car, so fun to drive.

NuncoStr8

I say go for it. It's like any other used car, IMHO. Obviously the more expensive models can come with much more expensive parts, but there's nothing to say repairs will be more common. Money over time, but gets out of whack when used car prices drop and parts and labor prices don't.

I have only one dealerships in my area, so that would influence my decision. But my mom's had a C350 AWD auto for maybe five years, bought used, and the only issue was a sensor that incorrectly indicated failure It was silly, but benign. Tires aren't bargains, but oil changes don't cost more as a car ages. Struts and rear shocks are going to cost more than a lot of cars, but it's not a cheaply built car. Stick with dealer work or MB-specific private shops, IMHO.

I'd look at buying a Jag before a Mercedes if you think it's a risk, but I think they are solid cars worth the money.

mosesbotbol

Get one with a manual if you can find them. My cousin had one and it was pretty trouble free. Engine held up well.

civicson234

dont know much about the c230's but i had a 97 e300 diesel for a few years, been in the family since new, sold at 127k miles with no issues. Maybe look at one of those if it falls within your range. Did good in all weather, wasnt particularly fast or sporty though it was very comfortable.