Expert answer

Hi Eugene,

Lots. Mercedes was going through a major dip in build quality and reliability in the mid-2000s, and the electrical system, braking system and the gearbox are all deeply suspect. Make sure it comes with a fully-stamped-up service history and lots and lots of receipts for previous work done. Be suspicious of everything, and if you see any signs of excessive wear and tear, or of items that aren’t working properly, walk away. Also, make sure you do a history and background check with Cartell.ie and make sure it hasn’t been used as a taxi in the past.

Expert answer

Hi Frank,

This is a pretty solid buy in general, though insist on one with a decent service history and do a thorough check of the car. Electrics can have gremlins in them so check each and every switch and button. Likewise, if it's automatic, walk away if the gearbox is very jerky and holds onto the gears for a long time even when you've not got your foot down. Watch out for knocking in the suspension too, as that could mean costly repair bills.

Hope that helps

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Hi Patrick,

I would suggest you should get about €35,000 to €40,000 on a trade-in. Clearly that will depend on the dealer, but it's something to work from anyway.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi Garry,

Timing chains don't come with a scheduled change, as they are designed to last the life of the car so long as the engine is well-maintained. 

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Hi Ciaran,

We've blanked out the reg online. With the registration plate we can only confirm the car's identity and type. To ascertain whether it has been used as a taxi or limo you'll need to do your own paid-for history check through http://www.cartell.ie - it's not very expensive and a wise investment.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi James,

As discussed via email:

That generation Audi A6 is in general a reliable car, but not fault-free. Some owners have had no problems, while others have been plagued. The Multitronic transmission is not renowned for being the most trouble-free, though units made pre-2006 have the most problems. Also, the gearbox's fluid should be changed at 55,000 and 115,000 kilometres (or 35,000 and 75,000 miles) so the car you're looking at should have had two changes by now. Check that it has and then look in detail at how the gearbox works. Does the 'PRNDS' indicator on the dash flash? Is there hesitation? Is it easy to get reverse?

No matter what turbodiesel car you look at you'll hear of turbo problems from some owners. Most of the time it's likely to be due to poor oil maintenance. So check the car's service history in terms of oil changes and that the oil level itself is right. They do use a bit of oil.

While you're checking out the car in detail, make sure the air conditioning can produce freezing air in just a few minutes, as these have been known to fail.

I'm probably making this sound worse than it is! I'd buy an A6 for myself - it's a good car - you just need to know what you're looking for and not get caught out by one of the few badly maintained examples out there.

Let us know how you get on.

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Hi Marc,

I spoke with Mercedes-Benz Ireland and it suggested talking to the parts department of your local dealer. Price should be in the region of €30.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi George,

There is no timing belt in that car; it's a timing chain.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Shane,

This is a job for a really good auto electrician to find, but we do know that some Mercs have such an issue caused by a CD changer. The only way to stop it appears to be physically unplugging it from the car! Take the car to an auto electrician and tell them that and they may find a way to install a switch for it or to fix it properly...

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Mark,

Merc mechanicals from that era are generally sound. Rust, however, can be a big issue. Get the bodywork checked over thoroughly, as well as the chassis rails at the back. Look under the boot carpets etc.

We put your question to Lizzie Pope, the editor of Mercedes Enthusiast magazine and she echoed our views:

"Finding a good car in the first place can be a real issue; these are, sadly, very much on the wane.  Classic specialists might be your best bet, although, of course, you'll pay for it in the price.  But that is probably the best chance of buying a solid, useable and, possibly, appreciating classic.

We'd say that it is best to avoid cars that need a lot of work - unless you have a clear (and, crucially, realistic) view of what needs to be done and what it will set you back, because, generally, the cost of the work will be much more than the car is worth.  Steer clear of cars with rusty wheelarches and jacking points, rust on the the rear chassis legs and rust around the sunroof frame.  As ever, buy the best you can afford, taking condition and provenance above colour and spec."

Hope that helps