2012 MERCEDES-BENZ E3.0L DIESEL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following its most recent MOT on 2026-01-27, but the maintenance trend shows a concerning worsening pattern over the past two years. While the car passed in January 2026, it had previously failed in January 2025 due to multiple issues including a fractured coil spring, detached handbrake cables, and worn tyres. The fact that it failed twice in 2025—once with a malfunctioning engine warning light and again with structural and suspension faults—suggests inconsistent or delayed repairs, raising questions about the reliability of the work performed between tests. The mileage progression shows a steady increase of approximately 10,500 miles per year, which is typical for a 14-year-old vehicle. However, the gap between the 2024-02-13 MOT and the 2025-01-20 test is unusually short—just 11 months—despite a significant jump in mileage from 105,226 to 136,076 miles. This rapid accumulation may indicate heavy usage or poor maintenance habits, especially when combined with recurring tyre wear and suspension issues. The absence of MOT records between 2024 and 2025 suggests either a gap in testing or a possible attempt to bypass inspections, which could mask deeper mechanical problems. Key components requiring close inspection include the rear suspension, particularly the worn bushes and deteriorated tie rods, which may affect handling and safety. The fractured coil spring on the offside front suspension is a serious structural defect that should be addressed immediately. Brake systems also warrant scrutiny, especially the rear handbrake cables that were detached in the 2025 failure. Tyre wear across multiple corners, especially on the nearside rear and offside front, indicates potential alignment or suspension issues. Finally, the loose heat shield and corroded underbody panels point to possible rust and exhaust system degradation, which could compromise emissions and structural integrity.