MERCEDES E1995 · 2.2L PETROL

This vehicle presents a concerning history for a prospective buyer, particularly given the total lack of MOT data for the last fifteen years. While the average annual mileage of approximately 5,133 miles suggests a vehicle that has not been driven excessively hard, the long period of inactivity since 2011 is a significant red flag. Vehicles left standing for over a decade often suffer from seized components, perished rubber seals, and internal corrosion that will not be reflected in these historical records. The MOT history shows a clear downward trend in mechanical condition leading up to 2011. The final inspection in November 2011 resulted in a failure due to critical safety issues, including a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber, a major exhaust leak, and dangerously thin rear brake pads. These defects, combined with the recurring steering play noted in the same period, indicate that the vehicle was likely neglected or poorly maintained toward the end of its active road life. The earlier 2010 failures, which highlighted excessive play in both front suspension ball joints, suggest that the steering and suspension systems were already struggling with age-related degradation. Because the car has not been tested since 2011, there is no evidence to suggest these issues were ever rectified. The mileage is relatively low for a 31-year-old Mercedes, but this likely points to prolonged periods of storage rather than a well-preserved, low-use vehicle. You must approach this purchase as a major restoration project rather than a road-ready car.