Mercedes G-Class key loss underscores hidden costs in used car market

In the United States, a TikTok user named Taylor B. bought a used Mercedes‑G Class for $15,000 but faced a $2,000 bill to replace a lost smart‑key fob, illustrating how advanced key technology can add unexpected expenses to seemingly cheap premium‑car deals.

Separately, an analysis by carVertical of Italian used‑vehicle data found that a small share of cars exceed 36,000 kilometres per year, a sign of intensive professional use such as taxis or delivery fleets. The study highlighted models most often subjected to heavy use—including the Mercedes‑Benz Vito, Peugeot 3008 and 2008, Fiat Ducato and Alfa Romeo Stelvio—and warned buyers to look beyond odometer readings, checking maintenance history and usage patterns to avoid hidden wear and higher long‑term costs.