IS IT LEAK-FREE?

The G-Wagen offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, and all prove robust unless neglected. A compression test is worthwhile to establish good health, but you’ll mainly need to check for issues such as oil leaks from perished seals and gaskets, signs of head gasket failure and excessive exhaust smoke. Sporadic oil changes will accelerate timing chain wear, and beware grotty cooling systems with a radiator in need of replacement. Replacing the exhaust can result in a fourfigure bill, and uneven running can point to a worn carburettor on pre-1982 petrols, or fuel injection issues on later models.