Hi all; just joined the forum, and I'm shopping for a new car. Narrowed to 2. 2002 Maxima se or Mercedes c230 ssports coupe. Close in price. The Mercedes has a ton of safety features and the latest M.B. technology, but the possible maintinence costs scare me. Almst $200 for a n oil change and reset the computer. My question is, how is the maxima for maintence and upkeep. Is its reliability good? Any hints would be helpful. P.S. I've driven both and both cars are a dream to drive. Thanks

 

I would go with the 2k2 Maxima...better styling...cuz in my opinion, the C230 is BUTT-UGLY! ...no literally, i think the back of that car was like a last second add-on or something for MB...cuz it really disgusts me...go with the 2k2 maxima...speed!!!

EDIT---oh yeah, and welcome to the forum!!!

 

$200 for an oil change???

Go with BMW, they offer free scheduled maintenance for 3 yrs./36,000 miles on brand new cars and a full 5 year warranty.

 

get a 2k2.. it's bigger, more space, HID standard(dont think c230 is standard), most likely faster, and plus you can do your own oil change for about..... 10 to 20 dollars(depend what kind of oil you put in).. and last time I did my 30,000 miles maintainese on my 2000.. it cost me around 250 dollar... so maintainese on this car is not bad at all.

 

I would go with the Max if you don't have deep pockets. $200 for oil change is just the tip of the iceburg...look forward to $1,000+ major service charges. Actually now that I have the Jag I must say that I would check out the X-Type...if its anything like my S-Type you'll love it.

Erik