2010 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · AV60 WXW

The vehicle’s roadworthiness trend over the past two years is concerning, with a recent failure in February 2026 despite passing its March 2026 test. The February 2026 failure—just five days before passing—was due to severe tyre wear, exposing ply cords on the offside rear and excessive inner-edge wear on the near-side rear. This suggests a lack of proactive tyre maintenance, as both issues were likely preventable with timely rotation or replacement. The March 2025 test revealed persistent underlying problems: corroded brake pipes obscured by grease, an oil leak (though not excessive), and electrical faults (non-functional side repeater and central rear seat belt). While the vehicle passed in February 2024 without defects, the subsequent history indicates a deterioration in basic upkeep, particularly in consumable components and critical safety systems. The recorded mileage of 182,727 miles at the latest test aligns with a steady annual average of around 11,400 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between tests—particularly the 14-month interval between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs—is unusually long for a vehicle with known issues. The February 2025 failure, occurring just days before the March 2025 pass, implies either a rushed inspection or unresolved faults being overlooked. The lack of mileage progression between the February 2026 failure and March 2026 pass (both at 182,727 miles) further suggests the vehicle may have remained stationary for an extended period, potentially exacerbating corrosion or fluid degradation. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the tyres, brakes, and electrical systems. The recurring tyre failures indicate a need for thorough tread checks, including inner-edge wear patterns, and verification that all four tyres are of suitable age and condition. The corroded brake pipes and grease contamination from the 2025 test warrant inspection for fluid leaks, pipe integrity, and caliper binding—particularly on the rear axle, where wear was previously noted. Electrical faults, such as the non-functional seat belt and side repeater, should be tested in person, as these could pose immediate safety risks. Additionally, the oil leak history suggests potential wear in seals or gaskets, requiring a check for fluid levels, unusual noises, or smoke from the engine bay. Structural components like suspension bushes and coil springs, while not explicitly flagged, should be examined for excessive play or corrosion given the vehicle’s age and mileage.