2016 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · BA16 POU

The latest MOT test on 2025-04-01 returned a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding year. While the vehicle’s history includes multiple advisories—particularly concerning front and rear brake components, tyre integrity, and suspension ball joints—the most recent test indicates a stabilization of the vehicle’s roadworthiness, with no major defects or dangerous failures recorded. The pattern of recurring issues, however, suggests underlying wear that has not yet progressed to critical levels, but proactive attention remains essential to prevent escalation. The absence of repeated failures in the past six months lends confidence that the vehicle’s maintenance has been addressed, though the advisories from previous MOTs highlight areas requiring closer inspection and potential replacement or servicing before they deteriorate further. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 74,250 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,425 miles per year, which is typical for a ten-year-old Mercedes-Benz E-class in its segment. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does imply consistent use over a decade, which accelerates the degradation of consumables, suspension components, and braking systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular service, potentially contributing to wear patterns such as uneven tyre wear, brake pad thinning, and suspension component fatigue. However, the presence of multiple advisories—especially those related to tyres and suspension ball joints—may reflect cumulative stress from frequent driving rather than a single high-mileage event. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front and rear brake system, as the advisories from previous MOTs indicate ongoing wear on brake discs and pads. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squealing noise when applying brakes, or signs of pulsation or shudder, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Visually inspect the brake discs for deep grooves, corrosion, or binding, and check the brake fluid level and condition—low or discoloured fluid may signal hydraulic system issues. The near-side front lower suspension ball joint failure from 2022 and the play noted in 2021 are particularly concerning; during a drive, listen for clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and check for excessive play or binding in the arm. If the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, inspect the front suspension for corrosion or rust, as standing can exacerbate these issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, the tyre condition is a priority due to the previous MOT failures. The advisories from 2021 and 2024 highlight worn tyres, with one tyre nearing the legal limit and another showing edge wear. Test drive the vehicle to observe tyre grip and handling, noting any vibration or pulling sensations that could indicate uneven wear or internal tyre damage. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can compromise structural integrity, particularly in a vehicle of this age. Additionally, verify the 12-volt battery health, as prolonged disuse or high mileage can lead to battery failure, which may cause electrical gremlins or starter issues. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids—oil, coolant, and brake fluid should be checked for degradation, as they can become less effective over time, even if mileage is moderate. A thorough service history check, including the last oil change and fluid top-ups, would provide further reassurance of the vehicle’s maintenance record.