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Will my 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK appreciate in value if I keep it in good condition?

I have a 2000 Mercedes SLK - which I purchased from a friend a year ago. I'm retired and don't do many miles in a year. The car has done over 140k miles but passed the MoT with no advisories in September. The car has some rust around the wheel arches, which detracts from the appearance, but is otherwise in good condition. I'm wondering if it is worth paying for the repair and respray work to be done in the hope that the car will appreciate in value or if I should just accept that it would be a waste of money.

Asked on 1 December 2020 by Allen Lutz

Answered by Keith Moody
While these cars have appreciated in value over the past five years, it's unlikely that repairing the rusty wheel arches will be financially viable. There are several reasons for this, but the most pressing one is that it won't just be a repair for the wheel arches - there's most likely rust in other areas and you could also end up with several 'while you're there jobs'. Lots of reasons the cost could escalate - but you will have to deal with the rust before it takes over. Have a look at some rust converters to try and keep the tin worm at bay.
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