GL / ML / R diesels
I bought a 2008 R320 springtime this year, at 120k miles. Now have 131k.
The three models share many systems, from drivetrain and suspension, to control systems.
If you're intending to keep it up yourself, the GL is easiest to work on because access to the motor will be the best of the 3.
The ABS system is currently giving me some grief, have replaced the indicated sensor with no joy yet... Will have a hard look at the harness this weekend, before considering the controller.
Before buying, you really must get the VIN to your local dealer and get whatever service highlights MB has on the vehicle. If you're looking at one with 100k+ miles, chances are fair the most expensive jobs have been done, but you don't want to go into it blind.
The oil cooler seals job is 15 hours book, which means for mortals it could take a week off work to cover the learning curve for a first-timer... Parts (ALL of them!) for this job can be had from Peter (above) for $100 or so, but it's a long, detailed job.
If the transmission controller fails, I think there are more affordable options available now, than when the problems first came to light. Replace the fluids in the boxes if the history is unknown.
I bought my car for less then I paid for the mk4 Jetta wagon! (About the same miles on the clock back then, too) The depreciation to on MB is a great boon, for those of us who "ain't skeered"! My Jetta is at 330k now, and I figure the R ought to go that far at least.
Looking forward to getting a tune on it. In addition to Malone, you have the option of Green Diesel Engineering, who are well trusted over on MBWorld.org, Sprinter, and Jeep forums.
You may have noticed the tire trend for SUVs and trucks are toward low profile? For these trucks the 19x8.5 tires are sticky And H-rated And run-flat. Average life is 25k miles unless you forget to rotate religiously, in which case you will be buying
more frequently.
Code reading: Carly reads up to 66 of the ECU/controllers, depends on installed options.
$60 for the download, can use the BAFX OBD2 Bluetooth dongle you use for Torque app.
I'm reminded, I owe cevans a how-to on the power steering fluid leak. This is definitely an MB thing... The Jetta has Never used ps fluid!
I really like the car/van/truck. To me, the R is the B5.5 wagon gurus like Scott Dewitt could specially construct for you back in the day, if time/cost was no object (AWD). But the R is bigger, beefier 3 rows seating- air suspension in the rear! 3300# tow rating... I have four children, and my oldest son is bigger than I am now, so the roominess is just great.
Hope this helps,
Tom
Non-sequitor, but really fantastic thread in case anyone reading hasn't seen this:
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/f...g-the-unicorn-of-my-destruction/110824/page1/