2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L Diesel · AV12 YSD

The 2026‑01‑13 MOT record shows the 2012 Mercedes‑Benz Sprinter was passed despite a litany of defects, including corroded front brake pipes, a damaged windscreen, and a leaking exhaust flexi, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance trend is stagnant rather than improving. Repeated failures on the same items in the preceding January 2026 test and earlier records demonstrate that the underlying issues have persisted, so the roadworthiness remains doubtful. At 144,928 miles the van is 14 years old, averaging just over 10,300 miles per year, which is typical for its age. However, the interval from the 2024 test at 122,498 miles to the 2025 test at 134,127 miles represents an increase of 11,629 miles in one year, and the jump to 144,928 miles by the 2026 test adds another 10,801 miles, suggesting a period of heightened usage or long‑term standing that has accelerated wear. A buyer should therefore concentrate on the recurring brake‑pipe corrosion, which has appeared in every test since 2020, and verify that any replacement or repair was carried out with genuine components and proper sealing. Inspection of the suspension is essential, as play has been recorded in the steering rack inner joints, lower and upper suspension arm ball joints, track‑rod ends and anti‑roll bar mounts across multiple years, indicating worn bushes that may affect handling and tyre wear. Additional checks should include the condition of the exhaust system for leaks, the integrity of the oil‑leak sources, the state of the windscreen and seat‑belt webbing, and the overall structural soundness of the sills and mounting points, as these items have been flagged repeatedly and can compromise safety if left unaddressed.