1998 Mercedes S-Class 2.8L Petrol · S28 OAE

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2026-06-08 resulted in a failure due to excessive exhaust emissions and recurring minor issues, indicating a maintenance trend that remains stable but insufficient. The same day’s prior pass noted similar concerns, including worn shock absorber bushes, corroded suspension components, and tyres near the legal limit. These issues have persisted across multiple tests, suggesting ongoing neglect of wear items and corrosion management. The failure to address exhaust emissions highlights potential engine or catalytic converter inefficiencies, which may require specialist diagnosis. The vehicle’s mileage of 147,890 miles at 28 years old equates to approximately 5,282 miles annually, significantly lower than average for its age. This pattern implies infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate corrosion and component degradation. The 2023-11-13 test recorded four tyres worn to the legal limit, while the 2025-06-07 and 2026-06-08 tests repeated similar tyre and suspension issues. Gaps between MOTs of 12–14 months align with standard intervals, but the low mileage may mask wear in systems reliant on regular operation, such as the braking and exhaust. Key areas requiring in-person inspection include the suspension system, where corroded sub-frames, suspension arms, and worn shock bushes were repeatedly flagged. The brake system warrants scrutiny, particularly the nearside front brake pipe’s corrosion and the presence of binding calipers or uneven brake disc wear. Structural corrosion on the rear sub-frame and suspension arms, though not severe, should be assessed for long-term integrity. Tyres showing edge wear and near-limit tread depth demand replacement, while the exhaust system’s failure to meet emissions standards necessitates immediate attention to prevent further mechanical or regulatory issues.