2009 Mercedes-Benz E 3.0L Diesel · KR58 SUY

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 24 April 2026 at 241,488 miles, passing with only a minor oil leak advisory. The maintenance trend is broadly stable but reveals a pattern of deferred rather than resolved issues. The tester flagged a persistent front oil leak across four consecutive tests from April 2023 through April 2026, each time deemed not excessive but never rectified. Rear brake pipe corrosion appeared in three successive tests from April 2024 onward, with the tester noting the pipes were covered in grease or other material, suggesting cosmetic masking rather than proper repair. Suspension wear has been a recurring theme, with front lower suspension arm bushes and ball joint play appearing repeatedly since 2023, indicating gradual deterioration rather than a sudden failure. At 241,488 miles over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has covered roughly 14,205 miles annually, which is high for its age. The mileage progression shows consistent use: 230,293 miles in April 2023, 232,598 miles in April 2024, 235,116 miles in April 2025, and 241,488 miles in April 2026. This equates to approximately 2,300 to 6,400 miles per year in recent intervals, with a notable jump of 6,372 miles between April 2025 and April 2026. The accumulation rate has accelerated, placing additional stress on an already high-mileage drivetrain and chassis. No significant gaps appear in the annual testing record, confirming the vehicle has been in continuous use rather than sitting idle. A buyer should inspect the front subframe and suspension components carefully. The repeated advisories for worn lower suspension arm bushes and ball joint play on both sides suggest these parts are approaching the end of their service life and may require replacement soon. The rear brake pipe corrosion is a structural concern, particularly given the tester's observation that corrosion was concealed with grease, which can mask the true extent of metal loss. A thorough underside inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential to assess whether the pipes are near the point of perforation. The persistent engine oil leak, while currently minor, warrants investigation at its source, as oil contamination can degrade rubber hoses, bushes, and brake components over time. Tyre condition should also be checked, given the advisory for a slightly damaged nearside rear tyre noted in April 2025.