MERCEDES-BENZ E2009 · 2.1L DIESEL

The vehicle failed its most recent MOT attempt on 2022-03-02 at 222,043 miles, with multiple defects requiring immediate attention, including unsafe tyres and an illegible registration plate, and passed only on the following day after repairs—indicating a recent but unresolved maintenance trend rather than stability or improvement. The oil leak flagged in both the 2022 tests remains persistent but non-critical, while the repeated tyre issues suggest inconsistent upkeep of consumables. The car has covered 222,046 miles over approximately 17 years, averaging 13,062 miles annually, which aligns with typical high-usage patterns. There is a notable gap between the 2020 and 2022 tests, with no intermediate records, and a sharp mileage jump of 17,616 miles between the December 2020 and May 2022 tests—suggesting either a period of heavy use or possible unrecorded mileage accumulation. The absence of any MOT between 2018 and 2019 also raises questions about continuity of care during that window. A buyer should closely inspect the front suspension bushes and arms, given wear was noted in 2019 without excessive movement, and monitor for any worsening play or noise. The brake system warrants scrutiny—front discs were worn but acceptable in 2020, and rear pipes showed corrosion in 2019; check for binding calipers, uneven wear, or renewed corrosion. Tyre condition must be verified in person, especially since two rear tyres failed tread depth checks in 2022, and inner-edge wear on the offside front was flagged in 2019, potentially pointing to alignment or suspension geometry issues. Finally, inspect the registration plate mounting and surrounding bodywork for rust, as plate illegibility can sometimes accompany corrosion in mounting areas.