Mercedes-Benz W123 And R107 DIY
Depending where you live, you are likely to need a windshield sooner or later. In the case of several Mercedes-Benz models, that can be a challenge or impossible. As of now, there is no OEM W123 windshield glass available from Mercedes. I spoke with the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in California to acquire a new windshield, and was told it is out of stock and they don't know when it will be made available. They are hoping very soon as they are getting quite a few calls for it. 220. While I very much respect Pilkington for their glass, it does not supplement the original glass from Mercedes. When I purchased my 240D in 2015, I needed to get a new windshield and installed Pilkington glass as I was still not certain that I would keep the car long term. Now that I know I am keeping the car, and my three year old windshield is now damaged again from a landscape truck dropping gravel on the highway, I am wishing I could install OEM glass. 500 a copy, but the side door glass is no longer in production and very few new pieces are left. As it stands, my R107 is at the Mercedes dealer this week being fitted with a genuine Mercedes windshield. Now we can only hope this will last for many years to come, and not succumb to a haphazardly covered load of debris taking flight on the highway.
There are exceptions. Getting a RUF upgrade from their USA place might be an interesting idea. But you still won't get back your money. Most cars are just used cars. Unless there is a particular demand for the model, say a 356 or early 911, some collectibles such as factory Speedsters, etc. your car probably isn't worth more than you paid for it. If you are comfortable with shipping, and with dealing with overseas buyers you can consider some of the eBay Motors foreign markets. With the weakness of the dollar, overseas buyers can achieve a significant savings even with import tax and shipping. Especially with 356's and early 911's. The market is quite crazy there, especially in the UK. But be careful. Yes, be very careful! I wouldn't sell anything without the money in the bank, and verified. Scams abound. I'll cover that later. Say you're not successful on eBay.
Well, don't give up hope. There are some other cost-effective methods to get your car out there. Firstly, the time-honored auto classifieds, Hemmings. I've always worried about the lead time, especially in monthlies but now Hemmings is placing their classifieds on their website so that answers that. It does seem that the asking prices are higher in Hemmings but that could be indicative of a more focused clientele than just wishful seller thinking. Lists are a good resource. Pelican Parts and Rennlist are two that cater to sports cars, and Porsches. They might be better for manual transmission cars than Tiptronics due to the readership, but the price is right. There are general listings such as Cars (dot) com and AutoTrader. Worth checking out even as a supplement to your listings. Remember, scams abound on eBay, both buying and selling. Be sure to add language to protect yourself. Unless you sell warrantees state whether anything is covered and the time period.
Or state, "AS IS". People are buying used cars and both parties must make an effort to do the right research to protect themselves. Also, sellers must be extremely careful who they sell to. Low feedback can indicate either a newbie to eBay, or someone who changed their identity to hide negative feedback. Negative feedback should be a warning sign. Too much of that and you might consider canceling their bids. Some people ask for a higher deposit from these buyers. Pay attention to the eBay warnings about scams. Foreign buyers can be a godsend with the dollar dropping. They can also be scam artists. Beware people who send a deposit higher than asked, and who request you to send back the difference in cash. You're not that stupid, are you? Certified checks can be forged. It isn't enough to deposit a check. The bank will credit your account for the funds.