1994 Mercedes Benz C problems

Filed Sep 17, 2011 · Electrical · 204,206 miles · NY

The engine wiring harness insulation has deteriorated to bare wires and cracks all along the engine compartment. The further down you remove the tape holding bundles of wire together, the more insulation crumbles. About 1k ago the engine began to run eratically and became difficult to accelarate, and maintain speed. I bought this vehicle with about 172k on it. After trying to resolve this issue with a tune-up and coils. That seemed to work for about five minutes. After further examination and pure luck a, friend with me, found some bare wires running along the top of the firewall under the plastic harness cover. Also found, was a stretch of wires that had the insulation crumble and was repaired with black electrical tape by one of the previous owners. The least expenseive replacement harness is $400.00 dollars. The labor has got to be astronomical. I have heard of and read many on-line incidences of this problem with these mercedes. This was my first mercedes. It is a phenominal vehicle that I have truly enjoyed. However, knowing how many of these vehicles have experienced the same condition, and the rating of mercedes in previous conumer " " " magazine, the jury is out as to whether or not I would consider a newer one.