1988 Mercedes-Benz 280 2.7L Petrol · E880 KNH

The vehicle presents a mixed maintenance picture, with a clear downward trend in the most recent test cycle. In the February 2026 test at 17,073 miles, the tester identified four separate defects, including a complete stop lamp failure, insufficient windscreen washer fluid delivery, slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint, and a service brake efficiency reading below the legal minimum. Although a pass was recorded on the same day, the simultaneous failure entry indicates that significant remedial work was required to meet the standard. This is a notable deterioration compared with the clean passes recorded in both February 2025 at 15,883 miles and February 2024 at 14,581 miles, suggesting that basic mechanical upkeep may have lapsed during the most recent twelve-month period. The mileage accumulation is exceptionally low for a 39-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 449 miles per year over its recorded life. Between February 2024 and February 2025, the odometer advanced by 1,302 miles, and between February 2025 and February 2026 it advanced by 1,190 miles. This is a remarkably consistent and modest annual rate, with no sudden jumps or suspicious gaps in the service record. Such low mileage typically limits wear on the drivetrain and suspension, but prolonged periods of inactivity can cause its own problems, including deteriorated rubber components, corroded brake circuits, and fuel system degradation. The recurring fault that demands closest attention is the nearside front track rod end ball joint, which appeared as an advisory in the February 2026 test with slight play detected. Track rod ends are critical steering components, and play at this joint will introduce vagueness in the steering and accelerate tyre wear if left unaddressed. A buyer should have the front suspension and steering linkage inspected on a four-post lift, checking for perished track rod boots, worn inner tie rods, and deteriorated wishbone bushes that may not have triggered a formal defect but will affect handling precision at this age. The service brake efficiency failure in February 2026 is the most serious finding on record. Low efficiency can stem from binding calipers, corroded brake discs, contaminated fluid, or a failing master cylinder, any of which could be exacerbated by long periods of stationary storage. A thorough inspection of the entire braking system, including flexible hoses, fluid condition, and handbrake linkage, is essential. The repeated windscreen washer defects across two consecutive test cycles also point to a neglected maintenance habit, likely a blocked pump or perished washer hose rather than a major concern, but one that reflects a pattern of deferred minor repairs.