2013 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · A10 ECS

The Mercedes-Benz E in question presents a remarkably clean MOT history over the past 18 months, with the most recent test on 20 October 2025 at 55,235 miles showing no defects—an outcome that underscores consistent roadworthiness. The trend is stable, with no advisories or failures recorded since the January 2023 test, despite a notable drop in mileage accumulation between tests. The absence of recurring issues suggests either meticulous maintenance by previous owners or, more likely, a vehicle that has been stored or used sparingly. That said, the double entry on 31 January 2023 —one pass and one fail at the same mileage (47,453)—is an anomaly worth noting, though the lack of defects in either record leaves its cause unexplained. The mileage pattern reveals a vehicle that has aged far slower than average for its class, with just 4,249 miles per year over the past 13 years. This low usage is unusual for a car of this vintage and could indicate prolonged periods of disuse, particularly between the 2023 January tests (a gap of just days but with identical mileage) and the 2024 October test , where the odometer jumped by 34,594 miles in under a year—a spike that suggests either a single owner driving aggressively or a data entry error. The most recent 15-month gap between tests (October 2024 to October 2025) saw only 5,438 miles , reinforcing the impression of light or intermittent use. Given the lack of defects, there are no glaring red flags in the MOT history to prioritise during a pre-purchase inspection. That said, a buyer should verify the suspension components —specifically the bushings, coil springs, and anti-roll bars—given the car’s age, as these wear gradually even with low mileage. The brake system should be checked for binding calipers or uneven disc wear, particularly the rears, which are prone to seizing in older Mercedes models. Structural integrity is less of a concern here, but a thorough examination of the sill sections, wheel arches, and exhaust mounts for corrosion or fatigue cracks is prudent, especially if the car has spent time in damp or salty conditions. The exhaust emissions system, while not flagged, may benefit from a visual inspection for leaks or rusted heat shields, given the irregular mileage pattern. Tyres and wiper blades, though not MOT-critical, should also be assessed for age-related degradation.