Mercedes-Benz produces some of the most reliable vehicles on the market. But like other cars, they also start developing problems after some miles.
Since there are many Mercedes-Benz models, there is no candid answer to what mileage Mercedes cars start having problems. Some Mercedes-Benz car models begin as early as 50,000 miles, while others wait to hit up to 100,000 miles, before experiencing minor issues.
Therefore, the Mercedes-Benz car model you choose is vital when it comes to reliability and performance over a long period. The E-Class model offers the best performance. It’s also the most reliable Mercedes-Benz model on the market. That’s why it’s preferred by many people around the world.
Mercedes-Benz Warranty
Like many luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz cars feature a 4-year or 50,000-mile warranty. If your car develops an unusual problem within this period, you can have a repair or replacement done. Nevertheless, you should still expect to pay for having minor repairs done like tires, brake pads, air filters, fuel filters, and that type of thing.
Is it expensive to own a Mercedes-Benz?
Common Mercedes-Benz problems before 100,000 miles
A handful of Mercedes-Benz car models begin to have problems before they hit 100,000 miles, but it differs from one Benz model to another. So, before you buy your car, find out when your car will start to experience problems. Here are some of the usual problems before your car hits 100,000 miles:
Catalytic converter failure
A catalytic converter works to convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides in car exhaust into nontoxic compounds. Regrettably, catalytic converters in most Mercedes-Benz car models become faulty after only 60,000 miles. They may become clogged or fail to work altogether.
As a result, your car may start to develop issues like bad fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, failing emissions tests, black smoke from the tailpipe, and more. You should replace the catalytic converter to avoid your car from having more issues. Note that the price of a new catalytic converter varies from one model to another.
Ignition failure
Another typical problem found in most Mercedes-Benz models before they hit 100,000 miles is ignition failure. Most Mercedes-Benz models develop ignition failure after 75,000 miles. The work of the ignition system is to form an electric spark in the engine combustion chamber, at a precise time, which will help ignite the air/fuel mixture.
If the ignition system is bad, your car will stall, fail to start, or the check engine light will turn on. If you own a Mercedes car, you should check your ignition when you hit around 75,000 miles. Don’t wait for it to fail to change it or inspect it.
Spark plug failure
Most Mercedes-Benz car models develop spark plug problems around 100k miles, meaning, it may come before 100,000 miles or after. Spark plugs help to ignite the air/fuel mixture. But as your car puts on several miles, this electrical device starts to wear out.
The spark plug problem is not only for Mercedes-Benz cars but all vehicles. A bad or failing spark plug can lead to issues such as engine misfires, poor gas mileage, hard starts, and rough idling. Replacing spark plugs is not difficult and can even be done by a DIY enthusiast.
Common Mercedes-Benz problems after 100,000 miles
This is where most Mercedes-Benz car model problems lie. Many Mercedes cars will start to develop issues after 100,000 miles. Here are some of the problems that you should expect to undergo when you hit over 100k:
Rust
Some Mercedes car models may not show or undergo any serious issues, but they will develop rust. As your car ages and puts on miles, expect to find rust in many parts of your car. It doesn’t matter if it’s an E-Class, S-Class, C-Class, A-Class, or even GL-Class; they all rust after some time.
Transmission
Mercedes-Benz may boast of one of the best transmission systems on the market, but it’s also one of their weakest parts. The 5-speed automatic transmission features a 13-pin connector and valve that might develop problems after you hit 100k miles.
After 100k miles, the connector may start to leak transmission fluid, while the valve body may cause bad shifting. Inspect these parts when you hit the 100,000 miles with your Mercedes.
Suspension and steering system failure
The suspension and steering system are other problems that all Mercedes car owners should be prepared to face when they cover 100k miles. The suspension system features springs, wheels, tire air, linkages, shock absorbers, control arm bushings, tie rods, and ball joints.
In some car models, parts like control arm bushings, tie rods, sway bar links, and ball joints develop problems even before 100k miles. Always inspect these parts when your car hits 100k miles.
Why buying a high mileage Mercedes is a good idea?
More up-to-date cars are made to last a long time, so you shouldn’t rule out buying a newer high mileage, Mercedes. Specific parts in a car deteriorate over time, and that eats into the reliability factor of a specific example.
There is a certain stigma surrounding high mileage cars, and people tend to avoid them thinking it might end up badly. Sometimes that scenario does play out, but it’s blown out of proportions. Whatever the case, you should generally be a lot safer with a newer model.
A great benefit to buying used are ample offerings listed on many different sites. There are many listings of many identical models, most of them being sold by private sellers. It’s a great place for finding just the right deal on a newer Mercedes.
This is especially the case if you are one of those people who tend to buy and sell cars very often. As the mileage on a car increases, the depreciation curve flattens out, and you can put many more miles on the odometer without losing much value.
Furthermore, a well-used car means that the inner workings of the engine are lubricated extensively, and all the carbon build-ups are regularly burned out. Both of which contribute to a long-lasting engine.
Why buying a high mileage Mercedes is a bad idea
You walk into a showroom and you lay your eyes on a gorgeous S 500 coupe. As you approach the car your eyes glance at the window sticker, and on it is a rather tempting offer.
You scout the sides of the car only to find out that the car is in pristine condition. You remember all the tricks your dad taught you when buying a new vehicle and you check all of the ”bad spots”, but it all seems to be in tip-top condition.
You still can’t manage to find the catch, so you start reading through the listing and realize your dream car has 100,000 miles on it.
Before you decide to speak to the salesperson, you should ask yourself: How deep do your pockets go? The price indicated on that window sticker is only the entry price, but the service and maintenance costs for such an automobile are maybe way above your budget.
You may never know how a 100k miles Mercedes was driven. As far as durability is considered, one could argue that a 50k mile hard-driven Mercedes is a bigger risk than a 200k mile Mercedes used in a dignified manner. And you don’t know which one of those two is the case.
No matter what breaks on the car, it will be on you. The same applies to examples that have been involved in accidents. The probability of those cars not being reliable is extremely high, especially with a lot of miles on the clock.
And given the fact that in today’s day and age, dealerships tend to mask even the most insignificant defects on the cars listed for sale. Who knows for certain if the car you are interested in is actually as good as the listing may suggest?
To avoid all these hardships and many others, you should investigate as much as possible. And, maybe the S 500 coupe that caught your eye could be a great catch, that will faithfully give you another 100k or more virtually effortless miles. It is viable.
No car is reliable or unreliable by default after a 100k miles. It all depends, and it takes time and proper investigation, and you might end up with the purchase of your life.
FAQs about buying a high-mileage Benz
Is it okay to buy a used Mercedes-Benz with more than 50,000 miles on it?
Buying a Mercedes with 50k miles on it is okay. But there are several things to consider before paying for the car. You have to look at its condition and maintenance history. Additionally, you have to consider the model as some Mercedes-Benz models start developing problems as early as 50k miles. Note that the Mercedes-Benz warranty becomes invalid after 50,000 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz cars reliable after covering 100,000 miles?
It depends on how you take care of the car. If you maintain your Mercedes properly, it should do over 200,000 miles without any issues. However, the model of your car also matters a lot. Some Mercedes-Benz models, such as the E-Class are more durable and reliable than other models.
How much mileage should I expect out of my Mercedes-Benz?
If properly maintained, you should get at least 300,000 miles or even more out of your car. Generally, it will depend on your car model. Also, the replacement parts that you buy when your car breaks down will play a huge role in its durability. Stick to OEM parts for the longevity of your car.
How many miles can a Mercedes go?
Mercedes can be expected to last approximately 200,000-250,000 miles before major repairs need to be made. In the end, there is no simple answer to this question. It all depends. Some models are written off sooner than others. Some die after only 50k miles on the clock, while others keep on ticking way past the hundred thousand miles mark. Even climbing up into millions.
Many people tend to think that high mileage Mercedes cars are a money pit, but all things considered, the stigma is unfounded in many cases. Mercedes cars are prone to breaking if not properly maintained because of their complex architecture. That said, a well-maintained example can serve you a long time.
Manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure the efficiency and reliability of their respectable products, and they do this through lengthy testing and fine-tuning the ins and outs of every aspect of driveability and sustainability.
What is high mileage for a Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
A Mercedes-Benz C-class can last an average of 13-17 years with proper maintenance. Mercedes can last from 200,000 to 250,000 mpg before needing major repairs. This is based on an average annual mileage of 15,000.
Final thoughts
Before buying a used Mercedes-Benz car, you need to consider some of the problems you might face. Different Mercedes models develop issues at different miles. Some experience issues after a few miles, while others take longer. Make sure you choose a model that is more durable and reliable in the long run.
