2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 6.0L Petrol · KV18 AAU

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class received its latest DVSA MOT on 2026-08-22 and passed with a single advisory regarding the offside front tyre, which shows signs of cracking or perishing. This is consistent with the vehicle’s age and the previous MOT history, where no failures were recorded between 2022 and 2024, and only two advisories—both related to engine and underbody covers—appeared in 2023 and 2025. The trend remains stable, with no evidence of worsening mechanical issues or recurring defects beyond the expected wear-related advisories typical of a high-end luxury vehicle at this stage. The absence of failures suggests that the vehicle has been maintained within the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, though the low mileage may warrant closer attention to standing-related degradation. The recorded mileage of 24,040 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 3,005 miles, which is notably lower than the typical wear rate for a similarly equipped S-Class. Such low mileage can indicate prolonged periods of inactivity, which may contribute to issues such as standing corrosion on critical components like the brake discs, suspension linkages, or exhaust system. However, the absence of high-mileage wear patterns—such as uneven tyre wear, excessive suspension clunking, or drivetrain grinding—suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive use. The advisory on the offside front tyre, while concerning, may reflect either light operational stress or environmental exposure rather than excessive driving. This discrepancy between age and mileage should prompt a thorough inspection of components prone to standing corrosion, particularly those in the front suspension and braking systems. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front tyre condition, as the advisory indicates potential perishing or cracking, which could compromise tyre integrity and road safety. Visually examine the tyre sidewall for signs of dry rot, delamination, or internal damage, and check for any bulges or irregular wear patterns that could suggest underlying mechanical issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front suspension, such as clunking or rattling, which may indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil spring mounts, or binding caliper guides. Additionally, inspect the front brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, as standing can accelerate rust formation, leading to reduced braking performance or premature failure. Given the vehicle’s low annual mileage, the buyer should also verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or internal degradation. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the charging system is functioning correctly by testing the alternator output and monitoring the voltage when the engine is running. Fluid levels, particularly the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, should be checked for any signs of degradation or contamination, as fluids can break down over time even with minimal use. Lastly, verify the presence of service book stamps for the recommended oil changes and fluid top-ups, particularly the last service performed, to ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a more thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or rust, as standing can exacerbate corrosion in this area.