2009 Mercedes Ambulance 3.0L Diesel · AY09 AXV

This Mercedes ambulance has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness trend over the past five years, with no defects or advisories recorded in any of the three MOT tests. The most recent test, conducted on 28 October 2022 at 298,228 miles, passed without issue, though it is now nearly four years out of date—a critical observation given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The lack of failings suggests the tester did not identify any immediate structural, braking, or emissions failures, but this does not preclude hidden wear or deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 298,228 miles over 17 years equates to an average of approximately 17,500 miles annually, which is unusually high for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests—around 12,000 miles between the 2021 and 2022 MOTs—implies consistent use, likely in a professional or high-demand setting. There is no evidence of prolonged inactivity, which could have mitigated wear, but the absence of intermediate servicing records means critical components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers may have been neglected beyond basic MOT checks. Given the high mileage and the vehicle’s age, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly for worn or deteriorated bushes and springs, which are common failure points in this class of vehicle. The braking system warrants thorough examination, including rear caliper binding (a recurring issue in older Mercedes models) and disc thickness—any uneven wear or corrosion could indicate long-term neglect. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on underbody corrosion, especially around the sills and wheel arches, where salt and moisture accelerate deterioration. The absence of MOT advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound, so visual and functional checks are essential.