2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.0L Petrol · CE68 HTF

The recorded roadworthiness history of this S-Class presents a broadly clean profile across the four DVSA tests captured since 2021, with the single notable exception being a Dangerous failure recorded on 4 November 2022 for a nearside front tyre with tread depth below the statutory 1.6mm minimum, alongside an advisory for an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and on its edge. A Dangerous categorisation signifies an immediate road safety risk at the time of test, but the fact that the subsequent annual tests in May 2024 and June 2025 both passed with no advisories indicates these tyre-related concerns were rectified and have not recurred. Five test entries are documented in total, comprising four passes and one Dangerous failure, with no structural corrosion advisories, suspension component defects, brake-related failures, or emissions issues recorded across the entire history. This represents a stable trend in terms of test outcomes over the most recent two and a half years. Mileage accumulation across the eight-year vehicle life works out at approximately 5,814 miles per year, which is markedly low for a luxury saloon of this vintage and substantially below typical annual mileages for vehicles of comparable age and class. The relatively sparse test history, with only five MOT entries recorded, combined with the modest overall accumulation, suggests the car has experienced either extended periods of limited use, longer-term storage, or a mixture of both. Mechanically, low annual mileage does not necessarily equate to a healthier drivetrain, because prolonged standing periods can be particularly hard on components that require regular operation to remain in good condition, while low mileage does little to spare suspension components, brake systems, and underbody components from the effects of corrosion through general environmental exposure. The absence of any corrosion-related advisories in the test record is, on this evidence, a positive indicator of underbody integrity, but it should be confirmed by physical inspection as low-mileage luxury vehicles are still susceptible to surface oxidation on subframes and suspension arms. For a prospective buyer, the key area of focus informed directly by the test history is the front axle tyre wear pattern. The 2022 failure recorded wear specifically on the nearside front tyre down to below 1.6mm, with the offside front also worn close to limit and exhibiting edge wear, which can be symptomatic of misalignment, worn suspension geometry components, or incorrect wheel balance. On a test drive, pay close attention to any steering pull to one side, uneven or rapid front tyre wear on visual inspection of the current rubber, knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and any vibration through the steering wheel that could indicate tracking issues. Given the recorded edge wear pattern, it would be prudent to check the condition of the front suspension bushes, track rod ends, and lower control arm components, all of which are common wear items on S-Class models and can induce uneven tyre wear when degraded. A four-wheel alignment check and a close inspection of all four tyres for both age-related cracking in the sidewalls and evenness of tread across the full width should be considered essential. Beyond the historical advisory points, the buyer should also conduct the standard due diligence appropriate to a luxury executive vehicle with restricted usage, including verification of brake disc condition on both axles, as discs fitted to low-mileage vehicles can develop corrosion pitting and lipping through light rather than heavy use, and inspection of all fluid levels and their respective service intervals. The underbody should be examined on a ramp for any signs of fluid seepage from the engine, transmission, and differential, as the comprehensive DVSA test record shows no such advisories but a physical inspection provides confirmation. Additionally, verify that the air suspension system, a hallmark component of the S-Class, operates smoothly through its full range and settles correctly when stationary, as compressor and air strut failures are common age-related concerns on these vehicles. Finally, confirm the tyre age by checking the DOT date stamps on the sidewalls of all four corners, as rubber older than six years from the date of manufacture is typically regarded as due for replacement regardless of remaining tread depth.