2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 2.1L Diesel · L20 DBY

The vehicle failed its most recent MOT on 2025-10-23 at 156,733 miles due to multiple critical issues—including excessively worn suspension and anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, a faulty airbag warning lamp, and an exhaust leak—but passed the following day at 156,734 miles after repairs, indicating the faults were addressed promptly. This suggests the car is currently roadworthy, though the recurrence of suspension-related advisories over recent tests points to an ongoing wear trend rather than a stable condition. The vehicle has covered 156,734 miles since first registration in 2013, averaging just over 12,000 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for its age. However, a notable gap exists between the 2022 and 2023 tests: the 2022 test was conducted on 2022-06-29 at 149,465 miles, but the next recorded test was not until 2023-10-25 at 151,739 miles—suggesting over a year passed without an MOT, possibly due to SORN status or delayed testing. Mileage then rose steadily: +2,331 miles in 2023, +2,331 miles in 2024, and +2,669 miles between October 2024 and October 2025, indicating normal usage resumed and accelerated slightly in the last year. A buyer should thoroughly inspect the front suspension system, particularly the ball joints on the suspension arms and anti-roll bar linkages, given their repeated failure across two consecutive tests. The coil spring corrosion noted in 2022 may have progressed, so the rear suspension should be checked for further rust or structural degradation. The exhaust system—specifically the centre and back box sections—requires verification that the minor leak flagged in both the 2025 tests has been fully repaired. Additionally, the supplementary restraint system fault should be confirmed resolved, as airbag issues can indicate underlying electrical or sensor problems that may not be immediately visible.