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1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E

1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E

The 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E is a compact executive sedan that was produced from 1982 to 1993. It is powered by a 2.6-liter inline-six engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The 190E is available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

People who own the 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E appreciate its solid build quality, comfortable interior, and responsive handling. However, the car is also known for having some reliability issues.

Engine

2.6-liter inline-six

  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed manual

  • Synchronizer wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting
    • Solution: Replace the worn synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

4-speed automatic

  • Transmission fluid leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, slipping gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front suspension strut failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, rough ride, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace the front suspension struts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear suspension spring sag
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride, reduced handling
    • Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system problems, battery not charging
    • Solution: Replace the alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Starter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, clicking noises when starting the engine
    • Solution: Replace the starter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels
    • Solution: Repair the rust damage
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Heater core failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No heat from the heater, coolant leaks inside the car
    • Solution: Replace the heater core
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • AC compressor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No cold air from the AC, compressor clutch not engaging
    • Solution: Replace the AC compressor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E is a well-built and comfortable car, but it is also known for having some reliability issues. The most common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, head gasket failure, transmission fluid leaks, and electrical problems. These issues can be expensive to fix, but they are not typically catastrophic. Overall, the 190E is a good car for someone who is looking for a classic Mercedes-Benz that is still relatively affordable. However, it is important to be aware of the potential problems that can come with this car.

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