2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.5L Petrol · 97 AKN

The vehicle presents a stable but repetitive maintenance profile, passing its most recent test on 27 April 2026 at 80,435 miles. While the car remains roadworthy, the MOT history reveals a persistent mechanical issue that has remained unaddressed for several years. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint has been flagged with slight play in every consecutive test since April 2023. This indicates a failure to rectify a known component wear issue despite multiple opportunities to do so during annual inspections. The recorded mileage of 80,435 miles is notably low for a 2012 model, averaging approximately 5,745 miles per year. The data shows very gradual progression, with only 502 miles covered between the May 2025 and April 2026 tests. Such low annual usage often suggests the vehicle spends significant time stationary, which can lead to secondary issues like perished rubber components or seized calipers, though the MOT record does not explicitly flag these specific faults. A prospective buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the front suspension assembly. The recurring advisory regarding the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint suggests the component is nearing the end of its service life and requires replacement to prevent more significant steering or handling degradation. You should also check the condition of other suspension bushes and ball joints, as the longevity of one component often correlates with the wear of its counterparts. The May 2025 test also noted a cut in the offside rear tyre. Although the tester deemed it safe at the time, the low mileage pattern means tyres may be ageing due to time rather than tread wear. Inspect all sidewalls for cracking or perishing. Given the persistent suspension advisory, a thorough test drive to check for knocks, vibrations, or uneven tyre wear is essential to determine if the ball joint play has progressed beyond a minor advisory.