2018 Mercedes-Benz E 2.0L Petrol · HV68 AAE

A consistent record of MOT pass results with no recorded defects across four consecutive tests from 2023 to 2026 establishes this 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class as a mechanically sound proposition from an official roadworthiness standpoint. The advisory raised at the 2022 test regarding front brake pad wear being thin is the only flagged item in the entire history, and its absence from subsequent examinations suggests the pads were either renewed or remained within serviceable limit at the following tests. The under-tray advisory noted at the same 2022 visit is a non-mechanical observation relating to fitted accessory equipment and carries no implication for structural or safety condition. The unbroken sequence of clean passes up to the most recent examination on 2 June 2026 demonstrates that core safety systems, emissions output, lighting, steering, suspension, and braking components have all continued to satisfy DVSA standards without recorded intervention. Covering approximately 80,454 miles over an eight-year period, this vehicle has been driven at an average rate of around 10,057 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a privately used executive saloon of this age. There are no significant gaps in MOT testing history that would indicate prolonged standing off-road, which is reassuring as extended periods of inactivity can lead to seized calipers, deteriorated brake lines, perished suspension bushes, and discharged battery cells. The steady accumulation pattern implies consistent use, allowing consumables such as brake fluid, tyres, and drivetrain lubricants to have been exercised regularly rather than allowed to degrade through stagnation. At this mileage level on a 2018 chassis, attention should naturally turn to higher-mileage service items such as automatic transmission fluid changes, spark plug or ignition coil condition on petrol variants, and the general condition of rubber components throughout the suspension and drivetrain, though none of these have surfaced as advisories in the recorded test history. Given the front brake pad advisory from late 2022, a prospective buyer should conduct a focused inspection of the braking system. On a test drive, listen for any binding or rubbing noises from the front wheels when releasing the accelerator, which can indicate a sticking caliper slider following pad replacement. Apply the brakes firmly from around 40 mph and check for any pull to one side, vibration through the steering wheel, or a pulsing brake pedal, all of which would point to uneven pad bedding-in or warped front discs. Visually inspect the front discs through the wheel spokes for a pronounced lip on the outer edge exceeding approximately 1mm, and examine the pad material visible through the caliper window to confirm adequate friction material remains. Any scraping or grinding noise under light braking should be addressed immediately as it would indicate pad wear down to the backing plate. Although no suspension or steering advisories have been recorded, the test drive should still include a deliberate pass over speed humps and uneven road surfaces at low speed. Listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension, which would suggest worn lower control arm bushes or anti-roll bar drop links, both common wear items on E-Class chassis at this mileage. With the vehicle stationary and the engine running, turn the steering lock to lock and listen for any groaning or whining from the power steering system, which could indicate low fluid or pump wear. Finally, inspect the engine bay and undertray area for any signs of oil seepage from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing, areas known to weep on this generation of Mercedes petrol and diesel engines, though the lack of any recorded fluid leak advisories in the MOT history suggests these areas are currently dry.