1986 Mercedes-Benz

300SDL Sedan

3L Turbo Diesel

Automatic

wdbcb25d0ga258729

Clear

Diesel

Pros: This car has been in the family since new and was garaged for the first 20 years. Therefore the physical condition is excellent. It is free of rust and dents. The interior is very nice. The finish is not faded. Cons: The differential whines noticeably at some speeds and power settings. The fluid has been drained and replaced. Fine metal powder was present in the drained fluid. The mechanic stated that the differential needs an overhaul or replacement. If nothing is done it will probably fail after about 20,000 miles but perhaps sooner! Otherwise the car is in excellent mechanical condition. Because of the excellent exterior and interior condition the car would be equally suitable as a recipient for a salvaged differential or for use as a parts car. This 300SDL is roadworthy and drivable as is! Except for the differential issue, all repairs and maintenance are current. On Apr-29-11 at 12:53:58 PDT, seller added the following information: · Below are answers to all questions from potential buyers: The differential got noisy on its own recently. My mechanic thinks that perhaps the tip of a gear tooth broke off. I just got a new Benz and my long-time mechanic retired so I want to sell this one rather than repair it. · The accident record is from an incident in 2005. The car was rear-ended in stop and go traffic. The composite bumper had an indentation but the other driver maintained that it was only a smudge. The police were called so there would be a record for the insurance claim. · The vehicle burns about 1 qt of oil in 3000 miles. · Tires are premium Michelins almost half worn. · The AC and heater operate well at this time. However, there have been electrical problems the last few years. · The timing chain is original and it is my understanding that it generally lasts the life of these cars. It will stretch before it breaks. A replacement guideline is more than 3-4º TDC stretch before replacement. This generally takes more than 300 K miles. · I have all records since 2005 and might be able to find all since it was new. I have the original owners and parts manuals. · The transmission is free of clunks when shifting and shifts at the correct points. · The seats do not sag, however, the front seats' upper padding layer seems to have lost resilience over the years. · There is no rust whatsoever. · The turbo does not seem to activate as early as it used to and has lost some of its kick. · I noticed a few oil spots on my barn floor where it had been parked for a week and suspect some oil seal issues.