2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · BL18 KOU

A pattern of intermittent electronic and parking‑brake failures emerges from the MOT record, highlighted by two major failures in the last three years – a Supplementary Restraint System warning lamp fault and an engine MIL fault in early 2024, followed by a complete loss of rear‑parking‑brake function in early 2023. Apart from those incidents the car has otherwise passed its tests, most recently in April 2026 with no defects recorded, and the only recurring advisories relate to tyre edge wear and mild rear‑brake‑disc pitting. At 67,852 mi the average annual mileage works out to roughly 8,500 mi per year, which sits squarely within normal usage for a 2018 A‑Class. The MOT history shows a regular yearly testing cadence with no prolonged gaps, indicating the vehicle has been on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This mileage level suggests that consumables such as brake pads, tyres and suspension components will be in the mid‑life stage and should be inspected for wear consistent with the recorded usage. The advisory on front‑tyre edge wear recorded in 2025 points to a possible alignment or suspension‑bush wear issue; on a test drive the driver should feel for any pulling to one side, a wandering steering feel, or uneven tyre wear patterns when the vehicle is stationary. The rear‑brake‑disc pitting noted in the same year warrants a close inspection of the rear brake pads and caliper operation – listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel for pedal pulsation under moderate braking, and check that the disc surface is free of deep scoring. The rear‑parking‑brake failure recorded in 2023 means the hand‑brake mechanism should be tested for full hold on both sides; any slack, uneven drag or failure to keep the vehicle stationary on a slope would confirm lingering issues. The SRS warning lamp and engine MIL fault flagged in 2024 require a diagnostic scan to confirm whether the faults have been cleared or persist; the buyer should verify that the air‑bag warning light remains extinguished and that the engine warning light does not illuminate during idle, acceleration or at steady cruise. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection should include electronic fault‑code reading, a functional test of the parking‑brake system, a visual check of the rear registration‑plate mounting for corrosion, and a measurement of tyre tread depth to ensure the edges are not approaching the legal limit. Addressing these specific items will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness.