Should I Buy a Used Mercedes With 50k Miles: Maintenance and Resale Value
Considering a pre-owned Mercedes with 50,000 miles on its odometer? Over the past four decades, I have owned 10 Mercedes vehicles and can attest to their reliability and notable performance. Despite occasional maintenance, these vehicles have rarely left me stranded, and at 50,000 miles, they remain in excellent condition.
Service and Mileage
When evaluating a used Mercedes, it's crucial to assess the maintenance history. A well-maintained car at 50,000 miles is like having a family member in your garage. Regular service records, showing between 5 to 10 oil changes, are key. If you purchase from a dealership, ensure you can access the previous owner's service records. However, if buying from a private seller, you can get a better understanding of the car's history and condition.
If you suspect the previous owner might have taken the car to a quickie lube place, it’s important to verify their methods. For many Mercedes gas engines, the recommended oil is European Spec Mobil One 0–40, but this can vary. Always check the repair logs and ensure the proper viscosity is used to prevent wear and tear on vital components.
Comparison with Other Brands
Another critical point to consider is whether a Mercedes is the best choice given its maintenance and resale value. While Mercedes vehicles are renowned for their performance and build quality, they aren't the most economical option. Non-Mercedes cars, like those from brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai, can often provide similar quality and reliability at a lower cost. These vehicles also tend to have fewer maintenance issues and better resale value.
Purchasing Considerations
If you do decide to stick with a Mercedes, it's essential to pay attention to the age of the car. On average, a car travels 10,000 to 12,000 miles per year. Therefore, a 50,000-mile mileage for a five-year-old car is reasonable and can be considered a good purchase. However, if the car is less than a year old and has 50,000 miles, it may be wise to avoid it, as a significant number of miles in a short time can indicate overuse or poor maintenance.
Much has been said about practicality and resale value. The 2007 Mercedes S550 provides an interesting case study. With 85,000 miles, this car has lost a staggering $75,750 over 11 years in residual value. This drastic drop in value indicates that many used Mercedes vehicles depreciate rapidly. Moreover, they are often leased for 70% of their fleet and then resold at extremely low prices, leading to high resale risks.
Electronic Problems and Warranty
Another hidden cost to consider is the prevalence of electronic problems that plague Mercedes as they age, particularly with their SAM (Signal Acquisition Modules) and other electronic systems. These issues can become costly to repair, often exceeding the value of the car. Once the manufacturer’s warranty expires, the responsibility for such repairs falls solely on you, potentially leading to significant financial burdens.
In conclusion, while a used Mercedes with 50,000 miles can be a reliable investment, careful consideration of its age, maintenance history, and potential for electronic problems is essential. While other car brands might provide comparable performance and reliability at a lower cost and with better resale value, a used Mercedes retains its status as a luxury and well-built vehicle. Just be prepared for the potential hidden costs.