Hello to all. I'm looking to buy a Crossfire, and wonder if there is anything I should be aware of, like:

• Parts are hard to find
• Parts are expensive
• Model years to avoid
• Particular problems

Thanks for any information you can provide.

 

The Mercedes SLK 320 and the Crossfire are sister cars which share 90% of mechanical parts including the engine. New Mercedes mechanical parts are available cheaper and easier to get than Chrysler Mopar . Ebay, Facebook Marketplace and car-part.com for used parts , Be aware the roadster is prone to the rear window glue failing due to age causing it to come loose from the top and 2004-mid 2006 had a sticky ignition key problem.
What are you looking for coupe or roadster, auto or manual ? Helpful hints when buying a Crossfire : https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...crossfire.html

 

The following thread offers additional insights besides those listed in the links/posts offered in post #2
https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...-what-not.html

 

Take a long test drive in whatever you're interested in. Test every button, make sure it has 2 working keys, listen for noises, check the lights, if it's a convertible, operate the top. Make sure there are no warning lights on (CEL, ABS, etc...).
Look at any records the owner has and before you pull the trigger, get a car fax.
Mechanical parts are available and aren't outrageously priced for the most parts.
Body parts can be hard to find.
NOTE: Brake lights will not work without the key in the ignition. Neither will the horn unless the RCM has been refurbished. (Yes, we have a guy that does that).
Also the car will beep angrily at you unless you click the seat belt before starting it.

They are great cars and you can get a lot of support on this site.
Best of luck to you!

 

Thank you all for the information. I'm not sure if I am looking for a roadster or coupe - looking for a lower mileage car so that may be the determining factor.

Thanks again for the info. I'll do more research and let you know how I make out.

With convertibles - is the glass falling out an easy fix?

 

Great questions. I am looking to buy one too. I'm also wondering if I would have to be a fairly comfortable DIY mechanic to buy one of these? I am usually pretty hands-off when it comes to repair work on a car and would rather pay to have a professional take care of it for me, but I'm wondering if this is a car that would require me to be a DIYmechanic for alot of the repairs? Thanks.

 

Anyone in Ohio willing (for a fee, of course) to examine a coupe in Millersburg (about 20 miles south of Wooster) for me. It’s the closest six-speed coupe I’ve found - to my home in Port Huron Michigan. If so, I’ll provide link. Looking for MT only, preferably coupe but if right car is a convertible, that’s probably OK.

Any other advice is welcome. I’m a DIYcar guy - been wrenching for 40 years - but on the old “analog” cars only. For stuff involving electronics, I either have a steep learning curve or I learn the way to the nearest XF mechanic.

Many thanks!
Allen

 

Don't rule out traveling to buy a Crossfire , you're more likely to get want you want instead of settling for something close. I bought my car in Florida and drove it back to Illinois, the trip back was the best drive I've ever experienced. Do your research with the potential seller. I 'm 79 and still do my own work even the electrical isn't too bad with everything in modules. Remember you'll get all the help you need her if a problem arises. Get what you want, it's out there. The convertible gives you the option of the top down and is not a rattle trap like some of the other models I've had my 07 6 spd for 8 years no major mechanical

problems

 

Take a look at Hemmings, there are fourteen listed: 11 roadsters and three coupes.
Also check Bring a Trailer, they have a great history on the Sale Price of Crossfires so you can see what you may pay.

 

Many thanks Nelson G and dcskmail. I would definiely travel to see the car - I would not buy it without examining/driving it myself - but I hope somebody living close to the car can provide at least a preliminary assessment before I spend the time and the money on a wild goose chase. I’m always on Banfinds, BaT, Craigslist, and FB Marketplace but had forgotten about Hemmings. ‘Will check there also.

Thanks again!
Allen

 

These cars are mostly Mercedes-Benz SLK 320 (R170 platform) with a Chrysler body. They are relatively easy to work on. However, if you don't feel comfortable doing your own work, you can usually find someone nearby that can do it for you.
The most important thing as far as working on your Crossfire: DO NOT take it to a Chrysler or Mercedes dealer!
First of all Mercedes dealers will flat out refuse to work on it because it is badged as a Chrysler. Second very few Chrysler dealers will take your car in for service and even fewer of those dealers will know how to work on them. They will also rake you over the coals money wise.
Look for an independent Mercedes mechanic in your area here: LINK - Mercedes mechanics
Another tip; If you post where you are from, there might be some of our forum members in your area that work on these cars.

 

Don't forget to look at Crossfires for sale right here on the forums , here's the link : https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...nsmission%5D=0