2012 MERCEDES-BENZ E3.0L Diesel

The vehicle shows a history of high-mileage usage accompanied by reactive rather than preventative maintenance. In the most recent test in January 2026 at 177,462 miles, the tester identified a nearside front wheel bearing with play and pitted front brake discs. These issues follow a trend of mechanical wear seen in the 2025 test, where all four tyres were near the legal limit and multiple brake pipes showed significant corrosion. While the car currently passes, the recurring presence of corrosion andrelated component wear suggests the vehicle is reaching the end of service life for several expensive assemblies. At 177,462 miles over 14 years, this Mercedes has averaged approximately 12,600 miles per year, which places considerable strain on the drivetrain and suspension. The record reveals a period of neglect between late 2019 and 2021, where the vehicle failed for a fractured road wheel, structural tyre failures, and a worn ball joint. The failure in January 2024 due to a defective parking brake lever and low efficiency, which was rectified within a week for the re-test, indicates that repairs are often only performed when necessary to pass the MOT. ### A buyer should prioritize a thorough inspection of the braking system and suspension geometry, as the corrosion noted on brake pipes in 2025 is a precursor to future leaks. The wheel bearing play flagged in 2026 requires immediate attention to prevent further damage to the hub assembly. Given the previous history of a leaking injector in 2023 and an oil leak noted back in 2018, the engine bay should be checked for signs of active weeping that may be exacerbated by high-mileage engine wear.