 I purchased this vehicle in 2003 and currently have 125,000 miles on it.  This car has been a NIGHTMARE.  The suspension has major issues, my total cost for suspension, control arm and various related issues is well over $7,000.  The catylytic converters went at 90k miles,$2,300. Transmission control module, power steering column and pump, calipers froze, transmission mounts, motor mounts, heated seat caught on fire.....the problems are too numerous to name.  Overall I've spent at least $20,000 on repairs.  All the mechanics I've spoken to advise getting rid of this car after 5 years.  It is definitely not built for the long haul. First and last Mercedes.