You stared in the right place, lots of information here, enjoy your searches. Oil changes are $100 + depending on the dealer but every 6,000 miles. Tires are: fronts around a $100 cheapest, rears about $180 to $300. If your kid can change his or her own oil and has a job that can support the basics or you are willing to shell out the moola then I say go for it. It is a great little car that is fun to drive and gets lots of looks. The prices have come down greatly on the 04 coupes, and you are buying Mercedes through and through. I envy you... your childs first car and searching together. It only happens once so enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!!!!