2002 Mercedes ML 2.7L Diesel · MC52 MOV

The vehicle presents a concerning mechanical profile with a clear trend of worsening structural and hydraulic degradation. While it passed the most recent test in January 2026 at 148,768 miles, this result followed a significant failure in October 2025. The transition from a failure to a pass indicates that repairs were made to leaking brake pipes and corroded hoses, but the underlying issue remains. The persistence of extensive corrosion across the chassis and sub-frame suggests that the vehicle is entering a stage of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is remarkably consistent for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 6,200 miles per year. Between October 2022 and October 2024, the car covered 2,314 miles, showing very low annual usage. However, the recorded mileage remained static between October 2024 and October 2025, suggesting the vehicle may have sat stationary for a long period during that interval. This low usage often correlates with the observed corrosion issues, as stationary machinery accelerates the degradation of rubber components and the oxidation of metal-work lines. A buyer must prioritize a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and sub-frame integrity. The record repeatedly flags corrosion on the integral body structure and the rear sub-frame, which the tester noted as currently not yet seriously weakened. The presence of corroded brake pipes that have previously caused leaks indicates that the hydraulic system is vulnerable to sudden failure. Furthermore, specific attention is required for the rear suspension and steering components, as the history of deteriorated steering rack gaiters and corroded coil springs suggests the rubber and metal bushings are nearing the end of their functional life.