To fix or restore...? Or is it time to end things?

[luna_hugheso]

My 1995 E320 Estate (which I only recently got going again after it had sat for a while) needs so many repairs that I'm thinking of selling it. I was hoping to hear other people's opinions on the matter before I make a final choice. The odometer reads around 235K, and here are the current requirements:
-Rear external oil leak, often known as the notorious head gasket jobThe coils are leaking from the top of the new radiator.
-the challenging part is that one of the SLS accumulators has to be replaced.
-The sunroof has to be rebuilt since, although the motor is working, the track parts are damaged and stuck in the closed position.
-A leak has been detected in the transmission; however, I am not able to be absolutely sure that the leak is occurring at the location where the dipstick mounts to the transmission.
It is necessary to replace the driver's window regulator.
We need to replace the motor for the rear driver's window.
-Requires four replacement tires.
-I still have the pieces, but the front blinker signal covers need to be re-glued. Unfortunately, both sides are missing.
-The body shows signs of wear and tear due to its age—31 years.
We have already replaced the OVP with a genuine MB part.
-A couple unfortunate hailstorms have hit the front grill, causing some minor damage.
It is necessary to replace the bonnet liner.
As a result of pulsation, the rotors must be resurfaced.
-The inside is not very nice.
-It is probable that the fan clutch should be changed.

After hearing all of this, what would you choose if this were your car (and I'm thinking it probably needs further repairs that I don't know about yet)? Put it back? What if you sold it in its entirety? Or, after skinning, gutting, and quartering it, divide it up and have it sent to the scrap yard? Attached to that, other from the original catalytic converter, what are the most valued components of this vehicle? I appreciate it.

[alexander_lewisq]

That list is quite lengthy.
Prioritize your own well-being.
Assuming it belonged to me

It's more like a storage bin and parts vehicle.

[elias.taylorjq]

Splitting it apart is a lot more effort than just enjoying it after some repairs. Get rid of it if fixing it isn't your thing. It would be perfect for someone seeking a little project. If it starts and drives, post it on Facebook for $1,000. If the air conditioner works, add $500. If it needs to be towed, lower the price to $500.

[violetas]

Given its age of thirty years, it would have been considered a partout a long time ago.

Whether it's a want, a need, or a combination of the two, these vehicles are out there these days.


Your post's structure makes it seem like none of those things is true here.

It may be time to part ways; it's recoverable, but if you're not into it, someone else could be, or you could just sell it or throw it away.

[kasper_youngq]

My experience restoring my W126 has taught me that it's not a good idea unless you have thirty to forty thousand dollars, despise the car's appearance, and have strong emotional ties to it.

Having said that, I get the impression from what you mentioned that you may have quite high standards. The term "bonnet liner" instantly conveys an air of false perfection. I still haven't thought about getting a replacement, even though I'm at least $40,000 into the Veggiewagen.


The question "what does this vehicle need to be a quasi reliable driver" should guide your next steps. Anyone can find a buyer for a running vehicle. Regarding matters such as oil leaks... it's subjective. As long as it's under one gallon per thousand miles, everything should be OK. The motor for the window? Maybe we could round up all the careless folks on our block. Many individuals just require a means of transportation. Are there too many problems with the vehicle for you to continue driving it? It seems to fit. However, what about someone whose only means of transportation to and from work are a car and who is scraping by on a daily basis? Delicious, heavenly food.

If you like it, you may pass it on. Bring it to market at a low price after fixing the most important things that can be done cheaply. It will make someone happy and put some money in your pocket.