The misconception that Mercedes Service requires an individual to take out a second mortgage is not entirely true. While major repairs can be costly like other luxury models, Mercedes can be maintained for less if one knows some basic facts.
Toyota is not alone. Audi 5000s in 1980's were driving themselves into walls. Most automobile manufacturers have experienced some sort of recall(s). These scenarios lend one to consider used vs new, where the quirks are already a known entity.