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Sydlynn20's avatar
Sydlynn20
Explorer
Jul 10, 2020

Mercedes C-Class

Hi, we are new to RV's and we're wanting to get a small (no more that 30ft) class c motorhome. I've heard mixed reviews about getting a mercedes c class, like they use certain parts that maybe a mom and pop mechanic shop may not have and also they are more prone to breaking down as the miles get higher. But they are very nice vechiles and beautiful on the inside. Please help me with the pros and cons for getting a mercedes! thank y'all in advance!
  • I have a 2018 rv on a Mercedes Sprinter 3500 and it ONLY cost about$500 for a front end alignment!! While I was on a trip in Utah and experienced a check engine light I contacted 3 Mercedes dealership and the first two said they don't work on Sprinters and they third one said "yes" they do work on Sprinters and "I can give you an appointment 3 weeks from today". Forgot to mention that at this point in time my Sprinter was still brand new and had under 1,000 miles!!!! Also want to mention that a fuel filter at the dealership was $225!!!
  • I bought my first Benz in 1970, a diesel wagon, and have had about everything since from a Smart car to a tricked out diesel van. Never spent much on maintenance because they don't break much---normal stuff like brakes, tires, and oil changes are just like any other car. You take care of them they take care of you. The rest of that class C is just like everyone else except its a little better and it costs a little more to go first class
  • I drive European cars, and probably always will, God willing, but I will ONLY buy CPO cars, and ONLY with a long bumper-to-bumper, unlimited mileage manufacturer's warranty. Then, when out of warranty, time for another one. Makes a big difference in the wallet!!
  • bobndot wrote:
    We lease all our MB cars, I would never buy one, much too expensive for parts out of warranty. It's bad enough how they try to rip us off while under warranty never mind without one.
    My MB car dealership will not service Sprinters bc they said they do not have the needed software. So, yes, while on the road, you will be limited.
    My friend had a Ford class C and went to a MB class C and dropped it soon after, didn't like the way it drove. He now has an 'A' .


    yep if you buy a MB you better have deep pockets. I'd get one of the other vehicles available.
    bumpy
  • FYI - MB Sprinter chassis maxes out at 170", so you don't find a coach larger than 25', and some 24' coaches can easily overload the rear axle. So if you're looking at floor-plans closer to 30', it won't be on a Sprinter.

    I'm not sure the Sprinter diesel breaks down any more than all other modern diesels, but the baby diesels (including Ford's Transit 3.2L) have more complicated emissions systems, combined with far less dealer support when it comes to certified techs.
  • Just do an internet search for "Ford chassis E350/E450/F53 versus MB Sprinter diesel". This topic has been beaten to death on the internet on various forums for years now. You have some googling and reading to do. :B

    I'll do your first search for you....
    https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk02NOL4mM8xpdLW6CHxtavOvLrOj_w%3A1594393249871&ei=oYIIX4XYNPasytMP9dq92A4&q=ford+chassis+vs+mercedes+sprinter+&oq=ford+chassis+vs+mercedes+sprinter+&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktYWIQDDIGCAAQFhAeOgQIABBHOgQIABAeOgYIABAIEB46BAghEApQxmRYi7EBYIzLAWgAcAF4AIABcYgBrxSSAQQxOC45mAEAoAEBqgEHZ3dzLXdpeg&sclient=psy-ab&ved=0ahUKEwjFrKna-cLqAhV2lnIEHXVtD-sQ4dUDCAs

    I prefer the Sprinter, and have had both Ford and Chevy, in prior RVs.
  • we have a older one 2007 and still love it. has not broke down yet. no rv dealer big or small carry parts for everything , they have to order them.the frig, stove pumps, etc etc etc are the same as any rv. try driving one more leg room than ford,chevy,dodge. ours has the five cyc engine no emisson stuff, and gets 20mpg most trips pulling a walleye boat 18ft gets 17mpg makes lots of trips from ohio to AZ, try one you,ll like it.
  • We lease all our MB cars, I would never buy one, much too expensive for parts out of warranty. It's bad enough how they try to rip us off while under warranty never mind without one.
    My MB car dealership will not service Sprinters bc they said they do not have the needed software. So, yes, while on the road, you will be limited.
    My friend had a Ford class C and went to a MB class C and dropped it soon after, didn't like the way it drove. He now has an 'A' .
  • Sprinters are very popular and the engine should be good for 300,000 miles. However, you have to pay attention to use only the fluids approved by MB. Cost is not excessive. Ours is badged as a Dodge, but its still MB. They drive like a larger van, very smooth and less sway than a class A. I get 15 MPG diesel. We pull a toad most but not all the time.