2017 Mercedes-Benz E 3.0L Petrol · 666 BGB

The most recent MOT on 5 May 2026 was passed, but it carried four advisories: the nearside and off‑side rear tyres are worn close to the legal limit, the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint shows slight play and the off‑side front wheel has been repaired. Earlier MOTs have been clean apart from isolated advisories in 2022 concerning a slightly distorted nearside front inner wheel and minor damage to the off‑side front tyre. There have been no outright failures, indicating that the vehicle has been generally well maintained, yet the recurrence of tyre wear and a developing suspension play suggests a gradual increase in wear rather than an improvement. At 104,827 mi for a 2017 model the annual average is roughly 11,600 mi, which sits squarely within normal UK usage patterns. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the car has been driven consistently rather than sitting idle for long periods. This level of mileage means that consumables such as tyres, brake discs, suspension bushings and engine oil will be approaching the latter stages of their service lives, and components that are mileage‑dependent should be inspected for the typical wear expected at the ten‑year mark. When you inspect the car, give the tyres immediate attention. Measure tread depth on all four wheels; any reading below 1.6 mm will be illegal and even a few millimetres above that may soon require replacement, especially as the rear tyres are already flagged as close to the limit. Look for sidewall cracking, bulges or dry‑rot, which are common on older tyres regardless of tread wear. During a test drive listen for a low‑frequency clunk when steering over bumps or applying the brakes, which would confirm the slight play noted on the nearside front lower ball joint. Verify that the repaired off‑side front wheel is true by feeling for vibration through the steering wheel at higher speeds and by checking that the wheel nuts are correctly torqued. Beyond the tyres, examine the suspension components for any excessive play in the ball joints, control arm bushings and shock absorbers; worn bushings will manifest as a loose feel or knocking noises, while leaking or soft dampers can cause a spongy ride. Inspect the brake discs and pads for scoring, rust or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Given the vehicle’s age, have the 12‑volt battery tested for cranking amps and check for any corrosion on the terminals. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and consider a full fluid flush (gearbox, brake, power‑steering) if the last documented service was more than 24 months ago, as fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven heavily.