2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 1.6L Petrol · AF68 ECW

The most recent MOT test outcome on 26 June 2026 records the vehicle as having passed, although it is worth noting that an earlier test entry on the same date shows the vehicle initially failed on the front windscreen wiper not clearing the windscreen effectively, classified as a Prescribed Reason under section 3.4 (b) (ii). The vehicle subsequently passed, indicating the defect was remedied between the two entries on the same day. Evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle has recorded six consecutive passes since 2022, with only minor advisories noted and a single failure relating to a routine wiper issue. There is no history of structural corrosion, brake failures, suspension defects, or exhaust non-compliance, which suggests a generally stable and well-maintained mechanical condition. The absence of any advisory related to braking components in the most recent test, despite rear pads being noted as wearing thin in April 2025, indicates those components were likely attended to in the intervening period. The recorded mileage of 51,280 miles across approximately eight years of service equates to an annual average of around 6,410 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular but predominantly short-to-medium journey use. The mileage progression across the MOT history shows gradual, consistent accumulation rather than any sudden spikes or extended gaps, which suggests the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. This pattern is mechanically favourable, as it reduces the risk of issues commonly associated with low-use vehicles, such as brake disc corrosion, seized calipers, and battery degradation from infrequent charging cycles. At 51,280 miles, the drivetrain components including the engine, transmission, and clutch (if manual) should still be well within their expected service life, though it is approaching the point where ancillary items such as drive belts, water pumps, and suspension components may begin to require closer attention. Given that the MOT history reflects only minor and isolated advisories, a prospective buyer should focus on age-and-mileage-appropriate checks during physical inspection and test drive. The advisory regarding the nearside and offside front tyres being worn on the edge in April 2024 suggests there was some uneven wear geometry present, which can be symptomatic of incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or worn suspension components. During a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, and inspect the front tyres for consistent wear patterns across both inner and outer shoulders. Verify that the rear brake pads noted as thin in April 2025 have been replaced, as pads below 2 to 3 millimetres of friction material will require immediate attention, and inspect the rear brake discs for any lipping or scoring that could indicate pad metal-to-metal contact. During the road test, listen for brake shudder under firm application, which may suggest disc warping, and ensure the vehicle pulls straight under braking without any pulling to one side, which could indicate a binding caliper. Additional practical checks should include inspecting all four tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is common on vehicles over five years old regardless of tread depth, and verifying the production date code on the sidewall to ensure none are older than six years. Examine the 12-volt battery, which on a 2018 vehicle is approaching the end of its typical service life of five to seven years, and check for any signs of slow cranking or dashboard warning lights on start-up. Inspect under the bonnet for any signs of fluid leakage, paying particular attention to coolant hoses, the oil filter housing, and the turbocharger oil lines, all of which are common failure points on Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era. Verify that the vehicle has a fully stamped service history, with particular attention to the automatic transmission fluid and filter change (typically every 60,000 miles on Mercedes-Benz 7G-DCT and 8G-DCT units) and the brake fluid replacement (typically every two years regardless of mileage, due to its hygroscopic nature). Finally, check the condition of the wiper blades and ensure the front windscreen wiper mechanism has been properly addressed following the recent failure, and test all exterior lighting including the offside front indicator side repeater noted as deteriorated in the 2024 advisory.