6 Must-Know Tips for Buying a Used Mercedes
6 Must-Know Tips for Buying a Used Mercedes
Posted on April 4, 2022
Mercedes Benz is known for its quality. Learn how to score a deal and buy a reliable used Mercedes in Saskatoon with these 6 must-know steps.
In 2017, Mercedes-Benz sold close to 2.3 million vehicles worldwide. This makes the German automaker the world's leading manufacturer of luxury cars for the second-straight year.
There's something about that star emblem on the grill of a car that oozes class, pride, and luxury.
That "something" is reliability, durability, and quality.
Most people want the dependability a Benz brings, but can't shell out the kind of cost a new Benz commands. The price of a CLA-Class - MB's most affordable model - comes in starting close to $34,000.
For those who aspire to buy a Mercedes, there are options. This is where Mercedes' reliability, durability, and dependability all come into play.
If you dream of owning a Benz, we're going to show you how to make your dream a reality. Here are the six tips for buying a used Mercedes.
What You Need to Do if You're Buying a Used Mercedes in Saskatoon or beyond
Regardless of how great a Mercedes looks - and let's face it, they all look great! - that doesn't mean there's nothing wrong under the hood.
Even though you're buying a used Mercedes, expecting that famous Mercedes reliability, you should also do your due diligence. That includes following these tips.
1. Be Wary
86% of car shoppers look online before ever stepping foot on a car lot. This makes it easy to fall into traps or scams.
Don't take anyone's word for it that there's only been one owner - a little old lady who only drove to the grocery market. This is a way seedy sellers get you to contact them.
While it's not unheard of that the used Mercedes C Class you're eyeing did only have one owner, you need to do some homework.
One way to increase the probability you're buying what's advertised is visiting a luxury used car dealer. These lots specialize in selling used Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc. More likely than not, they ran their own diagnostics on it when they took it into their inventory.
2. Check the VIN
So, you found a used Mercedes at a dealer and the sticker price looks as good as that S-Class. Now what?
Check the car's history. This may cost you around $10, but it's worth it. Find a reputable site and type in the VIN.
You're looking for:
- Accident history
- Flood and salvage history
- Frame damage
- Maintenance history
- Mileage history
- Title history and number of owners
It's also important to note if the car was a rental or a lease. This could have an impact on how it was driven. Also, if the car was a manufacturer buyback, do as much research as you can into the situation.
3. Check the COMAND System
The engine's computer system may come up without an issue, which is obviously a good sign. But, what about the central command system inside the vehicle?
The previous owner could have spilled a coffee into the center console. This could make it work improperly.
Connect your smartphone to the car's COMAND to check that Bluetooth works. Call a friend, play music, and check the volume settings. Toggle through all the menus and options.
If the Mercedes you're looking at has a knob, dial, or joystick, make sure it works fluently. If it's sticky or doesn't work in all directions, point it out to the salesperson. Do the same testing on the steering wheel's controls.
If the car has a display screen, make sure that works as well. If it has cameras, test them to ensure they're working properly.
If the system seems to lag, won't boot, or has trouble connecting to your smartphone or satellite system, this can be a huge issue. It could need something simple like a hard reset. Or, it could be something major like a system replacement.
4. Be Wary of Modifications
There are a lot of people who want to make their luxury car even more luxurious. The problem with this is that you have no way of knowing who did the custom modifications.
It could have been an aspiring street racer who used the cheapest parts he could find. It could have been someone who wanted a booming sound system instead of the Harman Kardon system that Mercedes installs.
Super or turbocharged models frequently have their computer chips modified for more power. A common modification is to lower the vehicle or replace the tires with larger wheels.
Whatever the modification, it could have an impact on your ownership. The good news is that it's pretty obvious when a Mercedes is customized.
5. Consider All Costs
When you find the perfect used Mercedes that ticks all the boxes on your must-have list and is affordable, it's exciting. But, there are a few things to consider along with the price of the car.
Yes, Mercedes-Benz' motto is "the best or nothing." They do build exceptional vehicles. That's why the sticker price is as high as it is.
None of that means they're immune to issues. Make sure you know where you're taking your Benz if it needs repair. Some mechanics charge more because of the emblem on the front grill.
You should also factor in fuel type and efficiency, the cost of replacing tires, and insurance. Also, consider the cost of maintaining the vehicle. How much does an oil change cost?
Mercedes don't depreciate much after five years, which is welcome news. But, you may have to maintain it differently than you would a Japanese-built car.
6. Get an Inspection
If you're looking to buy a used Mercedes from a luxury pre-owned dealer in Saskatoon, they will inspect the car and give you a copy of the report. However, it's also beneficial to get an independent inspection done on the car before you sign on the dotted line. This ensures that you're getting what you paid for.
In a way, it also protects the salesperson. The salesperson only sells you the car using the information they receive. If it's erroneously reported that nothing is wrong with the air suspension, but something is, it can get worked out before you take the car home.
All in all, paying for an independent inspection can save you thousands of dollars in the long run - not to mention the countless headaches it will save.
Now You Are Ready to Buy a Used Mercedes with Confidence
When you're shopping for a brand-new Mercedes, the shock of the sticker price can be a major turn off. Don't give up on your dream of owning a Benz - buy a used Mercedes instead.
If you're in Saskatoon, we can help you get into the Benz of your dreams. Start by browsing our Mercedes inventory, and if you don't find what you're looking for, contact us and we'll find it for you!