🚗 Classic Fault — Mercedes-Benz W116 (1972–1980)
W116 rust in rear wheel arches and sills
💰 Estimated Repair Cost
$300 – $2000 GBP
Parts and labour estimate
🔧 Tools Required
Welder, grinder, rust treatment
📋 Overview
Despite reputation for durability, W116 sills and rear arches rust from inside out, particularly in northern climates.
🩺 Symptoms
- Bubbling paint on sill lower edges
- soft spots in rear arches
- visible perforation on older unrestored cars
🔍 Possible Causes
- Blocked drainage holes
- stone chip damage
- trapped moisture in rear arch folds
🛠️ Diagnosis Steps
Probe all sill edges and rear arches with screwdriver. Check inner sill drainage holes are clear.
✅ Most Confirmed Fix
Sill and arch repair with cavity wax injection
70% of users confirm this fix worked (22 reports)
🔗 Other Mercedes-Benz W116 Faults
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