Hi Steve, generally these Mercs are fairly reliable. Servicing by a non- dealer recommended as M.B dealerships tend to be pricey. Patent parts readibly available. I would recommend you stick to the manufacturers schedule and when applicable replace the ancillary filters AND fluids i.e Transmission fluid and filter every 36000 miles, P.A.S fluid and filter, brake fluid etc...
Other than general servicing things to look for.. worn suspension joints.. although the parts are not expensive the Labour costs can be as specialist tools are sometimes required to do certain jobs. Finally check all electrical accessories work.
Things like eletrical sunroofs can be expensive to repair.
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