Buying a used Mercedes

Buying a used Mercedes   

With a long history that goes all the way back to the 1880s, Mercedes has built a reputation for high quality and luxury over the last 200 years. This positive reputation and the huge range of Mercedes vehicles make their cars and vans a popular choice on the used market. So whether you’re looking for a saloon or a commercial vehicle, this article will give you some SPOTICAR tips on finding the best used Mercedes car or van.  

Why buy a used Mercedes?  

Even before becoming Daimler-Benz AG in 1926, founders Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz were working to develop automobiles that were quicker, more comfortable and innovative. Since then, the three-pointed star brand has become one of the most well-known across the world for producing luxury vehicles.  

By combining tried and tested German engineering with elegant designs and innovative technology, Mercedes-Benz has managed to develop some of the most prestigious cars and a huge variety of different vehicles. From vans to SUVs, coupes and convertibles, there is a Mercedes out there to suit every driver’s needs.  

Which used Mercedes model should you buy?  

Each of the Mercedes-Benz car classes is designated a letter that relates to the type of models included within the range. Here is an explanation of the models available on the SPOTICAR network.  

Class models 

Although each letter may seem to have been designated to Mercedes ranges at random, they all have a specific meaning that relates to the types of cars in the range. Here is a quick explanation of what each one means:  

• Mercedes A Class: a range of hatchbacks and saloons that are smaller than the B Class range, hence they’re designated with the letter A.  

• Mercedes B Class: similarly to the A Class range, B Class vehicles are smaller than C Class models. This range includes family-sized executive multi-purpose vehicles.   

• Mercedes C Class: a range that includes saloons, estates, coupes and cabriolets, the letter C in this class stands for ‘comfort’ which is the main focus for these car models.  

• Mercedes E Class: standing for ‘executive’ class, this range includes similar models to the C Class range but is specifically designed for business travellers.  

• Mercedes G Class: this range of SUVs and 4x4s is designed for stylish off-roading, hence their letter is taken from the word ‘Gelandeklasse’ which stands for ‘terrain class’.  

• Mercedes M Class: this is a class of mid-size luxury SUVs that was moved under the GLE class in the 2016 model year.  

• Mercedes S Class: with the S standing for Sonderklasse or Special Class, this range includes Mercedes’ most luxurious and innovative vehicles.  

• Mercedes V Class: simply, this is a class for vans and minivans.  

Within these classes, there are two main model variants: Sport and AMG. This indicates the level of trim and spec options on the car, with the Sport (often indicated by the letter S) being the mid-range models and AMG being top-of-the-line cars.  

CL class 

The CL in this class stands for Coupe-Light and Coupe-Luxury. So, as you might expect, this range includes the CLA and CLS models which are subcompact and mid-size four-door coupes. Designed to make long-distance driving comfortable and fun, this class is great for commuters looking for a combination of luxury and performance.  

GL class 

A development of the famous all-terrain range, the GL class includes the GLA, GLC and GLE SUV models. Designed to be family cars rather than all-out off-roaders, GL vehicles combine luxury and practicality. With plenty of space, top safety features and a comfortable ride, they’re a stylish choice for any driver looking to fit in children and all their gear.  

SL class 

One of the most exciting and stylish ranges Mercedes produce, the SL class includes the SL, SLC and SLK sports car models. Designed to push the boundaries of the two-door roadster design, the SL stands for ‘super-light’, or ‘sportiness’ in German. This range is perfect for any driver looking for a stylish, fun grand tourer or convertible.  

Vans 

By translating the innovation and quality they use in their car models to van designs, Mercedes have brought a reliable and comprehensive range of commercial vehicles to the market. Three of the most popular designs include the:  

• Citan: small, agile and economical, this is an ideal van for transporting loads around a city.  

• Sprinter: the flagship model, this range comes in a variety of styles and wheelbase sizes, including panel, dropside and 4x4 designs.  

• Vito: combining the smaller size of the Citan with the design variety of the Sprinter, the Vito is a great mid-size van to include in any fleet.  

What should you look out for in a used Mercedes? 

There are a huge variety of used Mercedes vehicles available. So to find the best option for your driving needs, it’s key that you follow a few steps:  

• Research the model type: although Mercedes cars and vans are mechanically reliable, more recent models often include innovative technologies that can cause problems after a few years. Check out online reviews and forums to find the most reliable model options in the Mercedes range.  

• Look at the service history: as with any used car, it’s important to look at a Mercedes’ logbook to see if there have been any significant problems in the past. Checking previous MOT and insurance records is also recommended to make sure you don’t encounter unexpected problems after purchase.  

• Run a pre-purchase inspection: depending on your level of knowledge, you may be able to do this yourself or get an independent mechanic to do this for you. Basic checks for leaks and rust are essential, however, if you’re making a big purchase, an independent inspection is recommended.  

• Consider the mileage carefully: although a high mileage doesn’t mean a car will be low quality if it has a full-service history, it’s an important consideration to make, alongside the fuel efficiency. This will indicate how long the car is likely to continue running and how much it will cost to do so in the meantime.  

To take a look at the used Mercedes cars and vans currently available at SPOTICAR, search our online directory or book an appointment with a retailer and we can help you to find a high-quality vehicle that will perfectly match your needs.