What problems to look for on 2006 Mercedes E 200K?

What should I watch out in a 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 200K with 77,000 miles on the clock for €16,950? The car has just one owner, has a full NCT and come with full service history.

Marc Sutton (Dublin)

Jun 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

---

Expert answer

Hi Marc,

In general this car sounds like a decent, safe buy, especially as it has the reassurance of a full service history and a new NCT. Mercedes instigated a model update in 2006 so it would be interesting to know if your car is the last of the first generation of the first of the second. The updated cars are better all-round and feature more safety equipment as standard.

The early cars are known to have had a few electrical issues, with recalls in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2008. None were major problems, but it's worth checking this car's details with Mercedes to find out if it was affected and if the repairs were done.

Other than that, the E-Class is mechanically robust, so just take the time to try every electrical switch and device for yourself.

Hope that helps

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D