Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Second Hand Mercedes
If you’ve decided that you want to purchase a new Mercedes, you probably already have a particular model in mind. It’s important to be aware of the differences between buying a brand new and used car before you part with any money. The age of the vehicle you’re thinking of buying will have some impact on how you approach your purchase, but most points apply just as well to both modern and classic cars.
Where to Buy:
You can buy used Mercedes cars from a number of private sellers, Mercedes main dealers, roadside used car dealers or car auctions. You can use the internet to find your perfect used car, but make sure that you book a test drive and check it out thoroughly before committing to buy. Don’t be afraid to ask for as much information as is needed about the car, including the full-service history. If you choose to purchase from a car dealer, ensure that you check the small print in the warranty to be clear on what is and isn’t covered, and for how long.
Price:
You’ll need to have a firm budget in mind when looking for a used Mercedes. The asking price of a car should be one of the first factors in deciding whether or not it’s for you. Since Mercedes is a prestige car brand, it’s not only important to make sure that you find options within your budget, but also to be wary of any cars that you’re offered for a ridiculously cheap price. If the price seems too good to be true, you should always do your homework before buying – look into the car’s history and carry out a full professional inspection of both the mechanics and bodywork.
Mileage:
Due to the high resilience of the running gear, Mercedes vehicles with high mileage are frequently available. Although it’s a common misconception that cars with high mileage should be avoided at all costs, this isn’t always the case. When considering any used Mercedes, the most important factor to consider is the service history; ensure that each service has been carried out at the right time. You should also ensure that only genuine Mercedes parts have been used if applicable.
Maintenance:
Lastly, consider the cost and effort required to maintain your car once purchased. Your used Mercedes may be a great bargain initially, but the cost of maintenance can quickly begin to add up if you choose the wrong model. The cost of labor for services and repairs is a major issue to consider. Although you may be getting guaranteed genuine parts and accessories from Mercedes garages, you can expect to pay around 30-40% more for labor when compared to independent prices. If you’re investing in an expensive used model, it may be worth paying the extra for access to Mercedes trained technicians. For part cost ideas, check out this Mercedes parts catalog.
Condition:
Lastly, the condition of the bodywork is the main factor for anyone looking to purchase an older car. If you’re looking for a classic or older model, check wheel arches, foot-wells, door sills and shuts, behind light lenses, and around suspension mounts for rust.
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