C63 W204 Pre-Purchase Inspection Results

[Kuzy]

Hi everyone, I recently had a pre-purchase inspection completed for me on a low mileage 2014 c63. It was a bit expensive but I think well worth it for anyone considering an older AMG. Anyway, there were a few things flagged to me a couple wear and tear (front discs need resurfacing or replacing, air con is either leaking or needs a recharge).

The most concerning thing raised however was a small amount of rust on the rear subframe. The chap said it was only a small amount and would expect some for a 9 year old car, but I know they are renowned for rusting from inside out. Wanting to see if any other owners have a small amount of rust (is it normal) and also what are my chances of a free replacement from Mercedes? The car doesn't have FSH, it is missing 2 services, however no more than 5k miles were covered in the period where they were missed as the car was garaged.

Thoughts?

[belleair302]

What condition is the engine oils in and that inside the gearbox? I would be most concerned about the front underside as this is where the heat and weight are located.

[MickyveloceClassic]

Don’t buy without full service history- there’s no need.

One of the factors behind me selling my 2013 C63 was the rust and general tattyness underneath- only revealed in a Mercedes Benz service video - it was significantly worse than my 1996 C36. The rear subframe looked particularly grim, although I understand Mercedes may be replacing these foc.

Having said that, they probably won’t on a car that’s missed two services.

[W201_190e]

The service history won’t have any influence on Mercedes decision to replace it or not. If it’s holed, they will likely replace it regardless of service history.

[Terzo123]

W201_190e said:

The service history won’t have any influence on Mercedes decision to replace it or not. If it’s holed, they will likely replace it regardless of service history.

Correct

Rear sub frames are a known issue. Although Mercedes havent went the full way and issued a recall, for certain years/models (That age of C class being one) they will replace FOC if an issue has been identified.

[Kuzy]

belleair302 said:

What condition is the engine oils in and that inside the gearbox? I would be most concerned about the front underside as this is where the heat and weight are located.

As for the engine oil, it was replaced on a £1k MB service 2 months ago. Not sure about the gearbox service, it might not have ever been done due to its low mileage, I will check with MB after I buy it and probably get it done. The condition under the car is described as 'really clean' by the guy who inspected it and says its very good for it's age.

[Kuzy]

MickyveloceClassic said:

Don’t buy without full service history- there’s no need.

One of the factors behind me selling my 2013 C63 was the rust and general tattyness underneath- only revealed in a Mercedes Benz service video - it was significantly worse than my 1996 C36. The rear subframe looked particularly grim, although I understand Mercedes may be replacing these foc.

Having said that, they probably won’t on a car that’s missed two services.

Thanks for the reply. I've heard otherwise to be honest and if there are any holes on the rear subframe they will replace FOC. Because this particular car covered a max of 5k miles in between services then I think I could argue and just say the previous owner garaged the car and it wasn't driven so no need for the service. Anyway there are no holes, just some surface rust and not much at that. I agree in the general build quality issues with this car, hence getting as newer and lower mileage one possible. It is my achievable dream car though and if like yourself if becomes a bit too much of a liability after a little while I can sell and get something more sensible knowing a finally drove my dream car

[Sheepshanks]

Terzo123 said:

W201_190e said:

The service history won’t have any influence on Mercedes decision to replace it or not. If it’s holed, they will likely replace it regardless of service history.

Correct

Rear sub frames are a known issue. Although Mercedes havent went the full way and issued a recall, for certain years/models (That age of C class being one) they will replace FOC if an issue has been identified.

Reading the MB forums some people get them replaced effortlessly and others have everything from a load of grief to a refusal. There have been issues with availability and dealers generally won’t supply courtesy cars, so bear that in mind if it’s your only car.

[Terzo123]

Kuzy said:

MickyveloceClassic said:

Don’t buy without full service history- there’s no need.

One of the factors behind me selling my 2013 C63 was the rust and general tattyness underneath- only revealed in a Mercedes Benz service video - it was significantly worse than my 1996 C36. The rear subframe looked particularly grim, although I understand Mercedes may be replacing these foc.

Having said that, they probably won’t on a car that’s missed two services.

Thanks for the reply. I've heard otherwise to be honest and if there are any holes on the rear subframe they will replace FOC. Because this particular car covered a max of 5k miles in between services then I think I could argue and just say the previous owner garaged the car and it wasn't driven so no need for the service. Anyway there are no holes, just some surface rust and not much at that. I agree in the general build quality issues with this car, hence getting as newer and lower mileage one possible. It is my achievable dream car though and if like yourself if becomes a bit too much of a liability after a little while I can sell and get something more sensible knowing a finally drove my dream car

The sub frames are known to rust from the inside out. So if there's surface rust, theres a good chance the insides are knackered.

[Classy6]

As others have eluded too... I can vouch first hand that I have seen many that don't look bad from the exterior but have had trailing arms snapping off months later.

Mercedes from our experience have been very good at warranting them. My only snag would be that by this point, 90% of the suspension bushes/arms are worn and knackered and the brake pipes running across the axle are usually pretty corroded. Something to keep in mind for a "whilst your in there job" if you plan on keeping it for any period of time.