Mercedes-Benz Problems

With a limited budget like yours I would suggest to go for a car with a good reliability record. While the Mercedes-Benz is a good car you are likely to be facing an expensive repair if anything should go wrong. Consider a Mitsubishi 380 or a Toyota Camry of around 2000-2003.

We asked Mercedes-Benz for an explanation and a spokesman told us that the GLC SUV tow rating has always been 2000kg, which is what is reflected in the company's technical documentation delivered with the car, and on the Australian website.

The overseas rating is 2500kg, which is what you may have seen on the German site.

The company doesn't adopt these numbers due to our local towing rules. As a result the towing rating for Australian-delivered cars is less.

Show the dealer your record of reports and battery replacements to back up your claim and request a goodwill payment to cover the cost of replacing the alternator. If that isn't successful you could consider going to VCAT.

The oil fill with the filter is 5.5 litres, or 5.0 litres without.

If you aren't doing it already keep a record of the oil you put in, recording the date, the odometer, and the amount of oil added. That would give you some evidence to present to the dealer and MB. As you haven't had any satisfaction from the dealer go directly to Mercedes-Benz (Ph: 1300 730 200). There shouldn't be any reason to be scared on driving the car, all cars use oil, it's the amount of oil used that it the question that needs to be answered in your case. In the meantime check the oil level weekly.

I would get a second opinion on the Kia's engine before you do anything else. A sludged-up engine suggests a lack of servicing, but if no damage has occurred you might be able to salvage it. I wouldn't recommend either a Multivan or Valente, those you are looking at are too old and potentially too expensive to run and repair. A seven-seat SUV might be a better option.