Early vehicles were known to not last a long time. Consumer desires and use patterns were different, manufacturers viewed things differently, and the times reflected a vastly different collection of values. Today, with the high costs of new vehicles and fuel, consumers see things differently — and so do the car companies. 

 

High on the list of consumer priorities when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle is longevity. The trend is no longer to upgrade vehicles every two-three years; more people now want to get more bang for their buck by keeping a vehicle as long as possible. Even $250 – $300 a month in repairs is cheaper than a new car payment. 

 

This means your local Mercedes auto repair shop sees more high-mileage vehicles than ever before. But isn’t “high mileage” a relative term? 

What is Considered High Mileage on German-Made Vehicles? 

“High mileage” today is a term with many nuances, like “the best doctor in town” — it is mainly a matter of opinion. Of course, opinions vary; however, there is still some difference between 75,000 miles and 250,000 miles. One set of mileage may be high by one standard, while the other is only average by another standard. 

 

According to GetJerry.com, Mercedes vehicles are among some of the most dependable luxury vehicles available. Their latest evaluation of Mercedes models reveals that: 

 

  • With the right care, a Mercedes will likely take you 200,000-250,000 miles before needing major repair.
  • You can expect to get 15-17 years out of your Mercedes, as long as you maintain it properly. 
  • The annual repair cost of a Mercedes averages $908, and owners can expect to need repair 0.7 times per year.
  • An example of Mercedes reliability is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It got the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and earned a 2021 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score of 81/100 (great). 

 

What does this all mean? That racking up 200,000 to 300,000 miles on a well-maintained Mercedes is not at all unusual, while those totals may be considered extremely high and unusual mileage on some other makes of vehicles. 

Tips for Making Your Mercedes Last 

How can you make your Mercedes last as long as possible to get the most out of your investment? Here are some valuable tips. 

 

  • Keep your vehicle covered or in a garage to prevent sun fading or weather damage. 
  • Keep your car clean to prevent damage, rust, or other buildup. 
  • Stick to the maintenance schedule to optimize your car’s performance and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
  • Inspect your brakes routinely for worn pads or grooves in the drums. Pay attention to any noises from the brakes and have them inspected by a professional.
  • Have the electrical system inspected regularly by a reputable Mercedes auto repair shop.  
  • Have the transmission serviced once your Mercedes reaches 80,000 miles and every five years thereafter.  
  • Avoid cheaper, non-OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are not made to the same standards and specifications as OEM parts, and often do not fit well. 
  • Trust only a certified, experienced Mercedes auto repair shop for your repairs. 

Choose Reliable Mercedes Auto Repair in Charleston 

Ottohaus of Charleston is your local, reliable Mercedes auto repair shop in the Low Country. Our factory trained and experienced technicians spend all their time repairing German-made vehicles like your Mercedes, so we’ve likely already seen your car’s issue and know the best, fastest, and most affordable way to repair it. 

 

Contact us by phone or online today and tell us about your Mercedes vehicle’s problem. We’re happy to help and we know how.