2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · AP68 KXG

The most recent DVSA examination on 19 July 2025 resulted in a pass, although it is worth noting that a failure was issued on the same date for an insufficient front windscreen washer supply, which was subsequently rectified prior to the pass certificate being issued. The most recent pass is accompanied by an advisory noting that both front tyres were worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, as well as a note that an undertray was fixed at the time of test. Looking at the broader test history, there is a clear and persistent advisory pattern relating to front tyre wear, having been flagged at both the 2023 and 2025 tests, which suggests an ongoing geometry, suspension, or driving-style issue rather than a one-off event. The offside parking brake requiring adjustment in 2023 is also a recurring area of concern that warrants verification. Overall, the maintenance trend is not deteriorating in terms of outright failures, but the repeated tyre wear advisories indicate that an underlying issue may not have been fully resolved. The vehicle is approximately eight years old with a recorded mileage of 63,742 miles, equating to an average annual usage of around 7,968 miles. This is broadly typical for a privately used vehicle of this age and is neither excessively high nor unusually low. The MOT history reflects this consistent usage, with tests conducted in February 2022, July 2023, and July 2025, suggesting the car has been in regular service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. The two-year gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests and the two-year gap thereafter is consistent with normal MOT scheduling, and the mileage accumulation between tests appears steady, indicating no signs of rapid motorway accumulation or extended periods of inactivity that could lead to calendar-based degradation issues. Given the recurring front tyre wear advisories across two consecutive MOT tests, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition and specification of the front tyres and investigate the root cause before purchase. Edge wear on both front tyres typically points to incorrect camber or toe settings, worn suspension components such as control arm bushes, worn or sagging coil springs, or potentially worn top mounts and wishbone bushes. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly speed humps and potholes, and pay attention to any vagueness in the steering or pulling to one side under braking. It is also advisable to have the front wheel alignment checked on a ramp and inspect the suspension bushes, drop links, and anti-roll bar mountings for signs of perishing or play. The 2023 advisory regarding the offside parking brake requiring adjustment should be verified by checking that the handbrake holds effectively on an incline and that the rear caliper mechanisms are not seized, which is a common issue on vehicles of this age. Beyond the recorded advisories, there are several age-and-mileage-related checks that should be carried out on any 2018 A-Class approaching eight years of service. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for cracking, perishing, and UV damage, as tyres of this age can harden and degrade even if the tread depth appears adequate. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking strength and state of charge, as Mercedes-Benz auxiliary batteries and main batteries are known to require replacement within this age range. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion, and minimum thickness, particularly given that the vehicle has accumulated over 60,000 miles. Fluid services should be verified, including brake fluid replacement every two years, coolant renewal, and automatic transmission fluid condition if applicable. Given the vehicle is now post-warranty, a full pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes-Benz specialist or independent garage would be strongly recommended to check for oil leaks from the engine and transmission, condition of the turbocharger and intercooler pipes, and the functionality of the infotainment and electronic systems, which are known areas of concern on this generation of A-Class.