2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 3.0L Diesel · AB09 ABS

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive repairs rather than preventative care. The most recent test in January 2026 at 140,185 miles resulted in a failure due to an inoperative engine management system light and a severely deteriorated nearside front drive shaft CV boot. While the vehicle passed after these repairs, the recurrence of the CV boot issue, which was first flagged as an advisory in January 2025, indicates that component wear was not addressed until it reached a point of mechanical failure. The GLS exhibits high annual usage for its eight-year age, averaging approximately 17,500 miles per year. The data shows significant mileage accumulation between test intervals, notably a 31,322-mile gap between the January 2024 test (86,419 miles) and the January 2025 test (117,741 miles), and a further 25,551-mile increase between early 2023 and early 2024. This consistent high-mileage pattern places substantial stress on the heavy-duty Mercedes suspension system and drivetrain components, which accelerates the degradation of rubber components like boots and bushings. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and drive assemblies. The recurring history of CV boot failures and inner-edge tyre wear noted in 2024 and 2025 suggests potential wheel alignment issues or worn control arm bushes that remain unaddressed. The 2026 failure regarding the engine management light also requires a diagnostic scan to ensure no underlying sensor faults were simply cleared without fixing the root cause. Given the high mileage, an evaluation of the brake caliper seals and the condition of the exhaust system is essential to ensure the vehicle has not suffered from heat fatigue or heavy corrosion.