2013 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · BA02 JAY

This 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class passed its most recent MOT in December 2025, but the history reveals a rapidly deteriorating condition trend that requires caution. The vehicle actually failed its initial test the day before passing due to the parking brake efficiency being less than 50 percent, which is a significant safety defect that was evidently rectified immediately. The mechanical history shows a clear shift from a stable vehicle to one needing substantial attention. The MOTs in 2022 and 2023 were completely clean, but late 2024 brought advisories for worn brake discs, pads, and tyres. By late 2025, these issues escalated to include play in both front suspension arm ball joints, an offside front wheel bearing, and a minor exhaust gas leak. This accumulation of faults suggests the car is entering a heavy maintenance phase where age-related wear is accelerating. With 126,268 miles recorded, the annual mileage of roughly 9,700 miles is typical for a 13-year-old vehicle. This consistent use explains the natural degradation of consumables like suspension bushes and bearings, but the sudden cluster of faults across the braking and steering systems indicates that expensive repair work is imminent. You should inspect the tyres immediately, as the rears were noted as worn close to the legal limit just six months ago. Physically check the front suspension for knocking noises over bumps and listen for a humming noise from the offside front wheel, which would confirm the failing wheel bearing.