Mercedes-Benz Vehicles, Concept Cars, and the Mercedes Lifestyle

You are probably already aware that purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes can provide you with peace of mind. You know that the vehicles undergo a rigorous process of testing and are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. However, you may be interested in learning even more. Whether you are a Mercedes enthusiast seeking to learn more or a potential car-buyer who wants to understand exactly what your money pays for, read on for more details about the certification process.

The Pre-Owned Mercedes certification process begins with a general assessment of the vehicle. No Mercedes may be certified if it is over 6 years old or has been driven over 75,000 miles. The vehicle’s CARFAX report will be run, along with a complete history of possible recalls. If the CARFAX report shows any problems, the vehicle’s true mileage cannot be determined, or there is any visible structural damage, the car cannot be certified.

During the general assessment, all appropriate labels and stickers, owner’s manual, spare keys and other important details will be noted or replaced as necessary. The car will also undergo a software update and general diagnostics and repairs.

Next, the vehicle will undergo a full engine compartment assessment. All fluids will be tested and replaced as necessary. The battery condition will be assessed and the battery replaced if needed. A more detailed series of engine component tests will then be performed. From the A/C refrigerant to the engine mounts, every detail of the car’s engine components is carefully assessed and repairs are made as needed.

The next phase of testing involves the electrical systems. From the cigarette lighter to the rear window sunshade, every single electrical component is carefully assessed. All fuses are checked as well.

The next step is complete testing of the car’s undercarriage and drivetrain. The suspension, shocks, brakes and other components are carefully tested. The tires are assessed as well and are replaced if needed. Even the spare tire is assessed, ensuring that the purchaser will not be caught with a worthless spare.

Finally, the vehicle’s body and chassis are examined. A visual inspection of the body structure and all of the car’s glass is only the first step. Every feature from mirrors to trim is carefully examined. All seals and drains are inspected as well.

Once this phase of testing is complete, it is time for the road test. This allows inspectors to examine the car’s performance and handling. All indicators, such as the speedometer, are monitored closely. The inspectors also check for road feel, vibrations and other performance factors.

After the road test, a final assessment is performed. The car is inspected for leaks, automatic climate control and fluid levels. Only after this final assessment is completed can the car receive a certificate.

The process used by Mercedes-Benz in certifying its used cars is quite thorough and complete. The price of a Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes is slightly higher than that of an uncertified used Mercedes, but the extensive certification process ensures that the car is high quality and safe to drive. A manufacturer-backed warranty is also included.

For a new or certified Mercedes Benz, visit Mercedes Benz of West Chester PA, Mercedes Benz of Fort Washington PA, or Wilmington Mercedes.

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Many of today’s car buyers fondly remember KITT, the famous and much-loved vehicle star of television’s Knight Rider. With the promise of Night View Assist and speech recognition technology, the S63 AMG may just be the real-world coming of this wonder car. The S63’s capabilities were recently put to the test by CNET’s rigorous reviewers. Here is how the car stacked up.

The S63 speaks in a soothing female voice, rather than the sharply clipped male voice used by KITT. It also keeps conversation to a minimum, explaining how to use the system for a variety of tasks but refraining from dispensing advice. The system is easy to use and quite responsive.

KITT offered the ability to drive itself, freeing up Michael Knight for more important tasks. The S63 AMG’s adaptive cruise control offers a similar ability. In testing, CNET reviewers set the cruise control to 75 mph and allowed the car to work its magic. It performed admirably, pacing the car ahead at approximately 65 mph and using the acceleration and braking features to maintain a safe following distance. However, CNET noted that it is necessary for the driver to keep his hands on the wheel, as the S63 lacks KITT’s ability to steer itself.

The S63 AMG lacks just slightly in performance as compared to KITT. KITT featured an eight-speed transmission, while the S63’s transmission is seven-speed. The S63 accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds, while KITT was slightly faster at 2 seconds. However, the S63 wins out in handling, taking corners much more smoothly than the 1982 Pontiac Trans Am on which KITT was based.

The S63 also offers a major advantage in its Night View Assist system. Night View Assist uses infrared projectors to change the speedometer’s video screen to an image of the upcoming road. Testers from CNET found that the system allowed them to identify the type of vehicle ahead as well as greatly improving the visibility of the road surface and upcoming turns.

KITT offered a comfortable ride and a top-notch entertainment system. The S63 performs well in both of these categories. A six-disc changer and RCA jacks in the glove compartment offer a complete entertainment experience. The S63 takes comfort to a whole new level, offering a variable speed massage seat.

Of course, some of KITT’s features continue to exist only in the realm of fantasy. The S63 AMG does not provide a tear gas launcher, flame thrower, smoke screen or bulletproof body. Nonetheless, in the areas of performance and technology, the car meets or exceeds most of KITT’s standards. Why not come on down to our local Mercedes-Benz dealership to see this high-tech vehicle for yourself?

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