2004 Mercedes Motorhome 2.7L Diesel · A1 FHT

The most recent MOT, carried out on 22 June 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory that the nearside front brake pipe is corroded and covered in grease. Over the last seven years the vehicle has shown a mixed picture: two dangerous failures (a rear‑tyre bulge in 2022 and a front‑brake pipe leak in 2021) were followed by a series of passes with only minor advisories. This pattern suggests that the owner has addressed the most critical safety faults, yet corrosion on the brake pipe remains unresolved, indicating that the overall maintenance trend is cautiously improving but still requires attention to the braking system. With a recorded 52,355 miles on a 2004 motorhome, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 2,380 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical usage for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of storage or very light use, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, battery plates and metal corrosion, even though the mechanical wear from mileage is modest. The low mileage does not, however, guarantee the condition of wear items such as tyres, brake discs or suspension bushes, which can degrade simply with time. Prospective buyers should give the braking system a thorough inspection. Examine both front brake pipes for any signs of rust, pitting or leakage, and verify that the greased coating is not masking active corrosion; a functional brake pedal should feel firm and free from sponginess, and there should be no brake‑fluid seepage around the pipe fittings. The off‑side rear tyre that failed in 2022 must have been replaced – confirm the current tyre’s DOT date code to ensure it is not more than six years old, and check all tyres for sidewall cracks, tread separation or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, pitting or excessive rust, especially the nearside rear disc noted as worn in 2019, and listen for any grinding or shudder when applying the brakes. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of standing, additional age‑related checks are essential. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester and look for signs of sulfation or a swollen case; a battery older than five years may need replacement. Examine all rubber hoses, especially coolant, power‑steering and brake lines, for hardening, cracks or bulges, and verify that the coolant and brake fluids have been flushed within the past two years – old fluid can become acidic and damage seals. Inspect the suspension bushings, coil springs and mounting points for corrosion, cracked rubber or excessive play, and ensure the chassis and under‑body are free from rust that could compromise structural integrity. A careful visual and audible assessment on a short test drive, listening for clunks, rattles or wind‑noise, will help confirm whether the motorhome has been kept in a condition consistent with its low mileage and whether any latent age‑related issues remain.