MERCEDES E2009 · 3.0L DIESEL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a clean MOT pass in February 2026 at 97,350 miles. However, the maintenance trend shows a significant period of mechanical instability between 2024 and 2025. While the most recent test recorded no defects, the preceding months revealed a cycle of reactive repairs regarding safety-critical braking and steering components. The history suggests that while the car is capable of passing, it has suffered from neglected component failures rather than a proactive maintenance schedule. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 97,350 miles represents an average of approximately 5,700 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with the degradation of rubber-based components rather than mechanical wear from distance. The data shows a recent burst of activity between August 2024 and February 2025, where the vehicle covered over 2,000 miles in six months. This increase in use likely accelerated the failure of the aged suspension components and brake lines which were already prone to corrosion and fatigue from periods of standing. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system and steering geometry. The record repeatedly flagged corroded brake pipes on the front inner wings and nearside rear, which were previously masked with grease to hide the oxidation. This indicates a history of attempting to bypass faults rather than replacing the corroded metal lines. Furthermore, the offside steering rack gaiter and inner joint issues noted in 2025 suggest that the steering assembly is reaching the end of its service life, requiring checks for excessive play or fluid leaks. The suspension and tyres also require scrutiny. The failure in February 2025 for exposed tyre cords and an excessively worn ball joint highlights that basic consumable upkeep was overlooked until failure occurred. Although these appear to have been addressed, the recurring nature of exhaust mount failures and suspension wear suggests that the rubber bushings and mounts are brittle. Inspect the structural integrity around the inner wings and fuel tank to ensure that the corrosion seen on the brake pipes has not compromised the surrounding metalwork.