HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE
An expert’s view
NICK YOUNG, SOUTHAMPTON CHAUFFEUR HIRE
“The S-class has always been a chauffeur car at the top of its game. I progressed from the very competent E-class to the fifth-generation S-class (and subsequently the sixth). I had a S350 L and I found its 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine to be capable and good on fuel, while the long-wheelbase body provided lots of passenger leg room. It came with all the bells and whistles of the time, completing the luxury experience essential for all clients who want the highest-rated chauffeur service and are prepared to pay the premium. Mine was reliable and, though not a performance car, great to drive. I have no notable complaints.”
Buyer beware GEARBOX
Make sure the service regime has been followed. This includes changing the oil in the seven-speed automatic gearbox every 40,000 miles. Check that shifts are smooth as well.
SUSPENSION
Pay attention to the suspension on your test drive, because it should keep the car flat when cornering. If not, a new pump could be required.
INTERIOR
The Comand sat-nav system allows you to enter only a four-digit postcode, but Mercedes can upgrade it to seven-digit functionality. If this hasn’t been done, it could be worth asking for the work to be completed before agreeing to buy the car.
ENGINE
With the diesel engines, listen for excessive rattling at idle. This could indicate a stretched timing chain and, if left unchecked, this can result in a catastrophic engine failure.
ELECTRICS
Electrical problems are common and repairs can be very expensive. Among the most prevalent issues are failed amplifiers, broken inflating seat bolsters and faulty keyless entry. Use a trickle charger to keep it topped up if you plan to leave the car standing for a long period, as a flat battery can play havoc with electrical systems.
EXTERIOR
Some owners report finding corrosion and blistered paint, so look over the car carefully before buying.
Also worth knowing
You’ll want a long-wheelbase S-class if you plan on chauffeuring. Perhaps obviously, these cars are denoted by an ‘L’ in their name. Fortunately, they are very common and don’t always come at a premium. Versions range from the S320 L to the S65 L.
How much to spend £3000-£4999
Early cars in S320 CDI guises. Mileages of around 150,000.
£5000-£9999
More of the above, with some S350 CDI and S500 cars in the mix. Mileages get closer to 100,000.
£10,000-£14,999
Facelifted S350 L examples in diesel form. Some S500 L and S600 L cars.
£15,000-£19,999
Mileages drop to around 50,000 and conditions become very respectable.
£20,000-£24,999
Early S63 L cars enter the fold.
£25,000-£40,000
More S600 L and S63 L cars in good nick, plus the S65 L.
One we found MERCEDES-BENZ S600 L, 2006, 108,000 MILES, £12,995
A 5.5-litre V12 for the price of a new Dacia Sandero? Count us in. True, this S600 has done its fair share of miles, but it’s had only one owner from new. It’s also a long-wheelbase car – a great spec in general, actually.