2016 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · A1 RBJ

The most recent MOT, dated 3 December 2025, was passed but carried advisories that the nearside and off‑side rear tyres are worn close to the legal limit and showing edge wear. Apart from these tyre warnings, the test recorded no failures. Over the last six years the vehicle moved from two major failures – rear coil‑spring fracture in December 2022 and brake‑pad wear to the indicator in November 2021 – to a series of clean passes, the only recurring notes being tyre wear. This pattern shows a clear improvement in the vehicle’s condition, suggesting that the major suspension and braking faults were addressed and that the car has been kept in a road‑worthy state since mid‑2022. At ten years old the car has logged 57,073 miles, giving an average of roughly 5,700 miles per annum. This is considerably below the typical usage for a Mercedes‑Benz of this age and points to either light, infrequent driving or extended periods of storage. Low annual mileage reduces cumulative wear on drivetrain components, but it also raises the likelihood of age‑related deterioration such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation and corrosion of metal parts that have been idle for long stretches. The mileage record does not reveal any sudden spikes that would indicate a period of heavy use, so the wear profile should be dominated by time rather than distance. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the rear suspension now that the coil springs have previously fractured. Verify that the springs and associated dampers have been replaced with OEM‑spec parts and look for any clunking, uneven ride height or excessive bounce when applying the rear brakes. During a test drive listen for rattles over bumps and feel for any pull or instability, especially when cornering, which could indicate worn bushings or a mis‑aligned rear axle. Examine the rear brake discs for scoring or uneven wear and test the pedal for a firm, consistent feel; any pulsation or sponginess may signal that the pads were only superficially replaced or that the calipers are binding. The rear tyres are already flagged as near‑limit, so they should be measured for tread depth and sidewall condition; expect that replacement will be required imminently, and check the front tyre that was warned about in 2020 for cracking or dry rot, as age alone can render a tyre unsafe even if tread depth appears adequate. Beyond the specific defects, a vehicle of this age and usage pattern warrants a thorough age‑related check. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for electrolyte level, terminal corrosion and conduct a load test, as prolonged periods of standing can reduce capacity. Verify that all fluid services – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and power‑steering fluid – have been performed on a calendar basis, not just mileage, because fluid degradation can occur even with low miles. Look under the chassis for any signs of rust, especially around the rear sub‑frame, wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as moisture can accumulate when a car sits idle. Finally, confirm that the service book contains recent stamps for major services such as timing‑chain or belt replacement, and that any recall work applicable to a 2016 Mercedes‑Benz has been completed. Addressing these points will give a prospective buyer a clear picture of the car’s mechanical health and any imminent maintenance that may be required.