2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.3L Petrol · GM16 AEL

The vehicle presents a concerning downward trend in maintenance standards, moving from a clean record in 2022 to recurring consumable failures. While the May 2026 test at 55,144 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged both nearside and offside front tyres as being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edges. This indicates a lack of attention to basic upkeep, especially following the significant failure in June 2023 where all four tyres required replacement due to excessive wear and structural cuts. The mileage accumulation remains consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging roughly 6,900 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 24,304 miles in October 2021 to 55,144 miles in May 2026. There are no obvious gaps in usage that would suggest long periods of inactivity, which typically helps prevent corrosion or seal degradation. However, the consistent pattern of advisory items suggests the vehicle is being driven until components reach their absolute limit rather than being serviced preemptively. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The MOT history shows a persistent pattern of brake wear, with advisories for worn discs and thin pads appearing in every test since June 2023. The June 2023 failure specifically noted insufficient parking brake efficiency, suggesting the handbrake mechanism or rear calipers may require investigation. The recurring advisories for worn discs across the front and rear axles from 2024 through 2025 indicate that the braking components are nearing the end of their service life. The tyre advisories in 2026, specifically the edge wear, suggest potential underlying issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. Given the previous failure regarding uneven tyre wear in 2023, a physical inspection of the suspension bushes, ball joints, and tracking is necessary to ensure the vehicle is not causing premature tyre degradation. While no major structural or emissions issues appear in the record, the reliance on reactive rather than preventative maintenance is evident.