1999 Mercedes ML 3.2L Petrol/gas · S490 BNS
1999 Mercedes ML (3.2L, petrol/gas). First registered 01/01/1999. Recorded mileage 114,881 miles. MOT status: Expired. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES ML
- Year / Origin
- 1999 · Glasgow
- MOT Status
- Valid until 15/03/2025
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 114,881 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL/GAS · 3.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL/GAS
- Year
- 1999
- Engine
- 3199cc
S490 BNS Key Findings
- 1 MOT test recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/03/2024
- 114,881 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
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S490 BNS MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
1 MOT test are recorded for this 1999 Mercedes Ml (S490 BNS) between March 2024 and March 2024.
The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 4 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Exercise caution when considering this 1
Prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The 2024 MOT failure specifically noted corroded brake pipes covered in grease, which can sometimes be used to mask the extent of the corrosion. Ensure the brake lines are not just surface-level but structurally sound throughout the chassis.
Check the service history for any evidence of suspension maintenance, as the rear suspension arm pin/bush was noted as worn in the last test. Given the age of the vehicle, you should also verify that all rubber components, such as hoses and seals, are not perishing, similar to the nearside front tyre issue noted in the MOT history.
As a 3.2L petrol vehicle, running costs will be higher than average for a standard SUV. Expect significant fuel consumption, particularly in urban environments, and a higher insurance group due to the engine displacement.
Tax and maintenance costs should be factored in; while parts for a Mercedes are high quality, they can be expensive. Annual running costs will likely be substantial, covering high fuel usage and the potential need for more frequent suspension and braking component replacements common to vehicles of this era.
Focus heavily on the underside of the vehicle. The MOT history mentions the car is 'heavily undersealed,' which can hide significant rust on the chassis and brake lines. You must ensure the corrosion noted on the brake pipes has been properly rectified and not merely covered up.
Inspect the suspension components and tyres. The previous MOT flagged a worn rear suspension arm bush and a damaged/perishing nearside front tyre. Check all other tyres for similar cracking or age-related perishing, and listen for knocks or rattles from the rear suspension during a test drive to ensure the bush issue hasn't progressed.
This red 1999 Mercedes ML with a 3.2L petrol engine has covered 114,881 miles since its first registration in January 1999. The most recent MOT in March 2024 identified issues with brake pipe corrosion, tyre perishing, and worn rear suspension components. The presence of heavy undersealing suggests an attempt to manage rust, but the recorded brake pipe corrosion indicates that moisture or degradation may still be an issue.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific Mercedes ML model to provide a comparative reliability rating.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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