2001 Mercedes S-Class 3.2L Petrol · Y128 AGK

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend shows a shift towards developing suspension-related wear. The most recent test in August 2025 at 90,557 miles identified a slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint. This represents a progression from the clean sheet recorded in August 2024, suggesting that components are beginning to reach the end of life due to age despite the low overall mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a twenty-five-year-old luxury saloon, averaging approximately 3,600 miles per year. Between August 2021 and August 2025, the car covered 20,021 miles, indicating consistent but infrequent use. While this low mileage reduces mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, the data reveals that the vehicle likely sat stationary for long periods. This usage pattern often leads to the degradation of rubber components, as seen with the deteriorated CV boots noted in 2022. A buyer must focus their physical inspection on the lower chassis and braking system to address recurring mechanical risks. The 2022 test flagged severely deteriorated CV boots on both rear inner drive shafts, and the 2023 record identified corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease. These findings suggest that environmental corrosion and material fatigue are greater threats for this vehicle than mechanical mileage. The recent discovery of play in the offside front ball joint requires a thorough check of the entire front suspension assembly to ensure the wear is not systemic across all bushes or control arms.