How to buy a good, used Mercedes 300 diesel sedan ?

The Mercedes 300D diesel sedan is rated world wide as one of the safest and reliable cars ever built . A Mercedes is viewed as some sort of pampered status symbol in America . In places outside of the U.S.A. is where a Mercedes really shows it worth . They can be seen as taxi cabs in other countries . They appear to be the only brand that will hold up to third world travel condition . These cars literally thrive in harsh environments . It's not unsual to find examples of this car with 300,000 to 400,000 miles on the engine and still running reliably . The mercedes diesel is a true diesel and will run forever with scheduled oil changes ( 4 months or 4,000 miles ) . Don't be put off if the Mercedes diesel you want has 200,000 miles on it . It's only starting to be broken in at this mileage( if properly maintained )  . You can usually expect several hundred thousand more miles from the engine . If you make your living as a traveling salesman a diesel is the way to go !

This guide is for the individual with prior experience in purchasing a used car . The only difference is now you're dealing with a diesel . Do the usual things that you check for when purchasing a used car . There is one distinct difference you should check when dealing with any diesel engine .

#1. When you are talking about diesel engines the three most important factors are : "compression,compression, compression !" . A diesel engine wont run  if the engine compression is too low . So before you drive off with your new car , please take it to a qualified mechanic and have an engine compression test done on every cylinder . You'll want to avoid an engine that tests too low ( less than 290psi per cylinder ) . Such an engine will fail eventually . So avoid anything that tests less than 290psi per cylinder . Lets not kid ourselves here . A used Mercedes 300d diesel, engine swap or rebuild can cost anywhere from $1400 to $4000 . A diesel engine with good compression test results is a safe buy ! Ask any qualified diesel mechanic and they'll second what you've just read here .

#2. There is no substitute for a thorough mechanical inspection on any potential used car purchase . Such inspections are designed to warn the buyer of possible mechanical failures and other expenses . Locate a mechanic that you feel is trustworthy . Stay away from Mercedes dealership mechanics unless you have deep pockets . 

I hope this will help prospective diesel buyer make a good purchase ! Thanks for reading !

If this information was useful to you please check the yes box below .

Thanks !

Visit my store ! CDman-Jazz