2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.2L Petrol · B29 BJO

The 2001 Mercedes S-Class presents a stable and reassuring roadworthiness record at its most recent MOT on 19 June 2025, when it passed at 132,329 miles with only a minor advisory for an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit. The maintenance trend is clearly improving and well-managed. A single failure on 26 May 2022 for an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm ball joint was promptly rectified, as evidenced by the clean pass just four days later on 30 May 2022. Since that repair, three consecutive annual tests through June 2025 have returned either zero defects or only minor tyre wear advisories, indicating consistent upkeep and no recurring mechanical faults. The mileage pattern tells a clear story of very light use for a vehicle of this age. At 132,329 miles over roughly 25 years, the annual average sits at approximately 5,293 miles. The recorded intervals show steady but modest accumulation: 2,611 miles between June 2023 and June 2024, and 2,767 miles between June 2024 and June 2025. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer readings, and the record is complete with annual tests filed consistently from 2022 onward. This pattern suggests the car has been used for regular, short-to-medium distance driving rather than sitting idle for extended periods, which is a positive indicator for mechanical health on a complex luxury saloon. Prospective buyers should still approach a physical inspection with appropriate diligence for a 25-year-old S-Class. The 2022 ball joint failure, though resolved, warrants a close check of the remaining front suspension arms, bushes, and track rod ends for play or deterioration. The recurring advisory on the offside front tyre suggests possible alignment or camber issues at that corner, so a four-wheel alignment check and thorough inspection of the inner tyre sidewalls are advisable. Given the vehicle's age and the complexity of its likely air suspension system, a thorough examination of the struts, air springs, compressors, and structural mounting points for corrosion or leaks is essential. The low annual mileage also means rubber components such as engine mounts, anti-roll bar links, and bushings may have aged through time rather than use, so these should be inspected for perishing or cracking regardless of the odometer reading.