2016 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · CL65 CAM

The most recent MOT on 16 February 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, and the preceding test in February 2025 also passed after a failure the day before for a deficient parking‑brake. Earlier MOTs show a similar pattern: a failure for parking‑brake efficiency in October 2021 together with advisories for tyre‑pressure warning and rear‑disc wear, but otherwise a series of clean passes. This suggests that the vehicle’s overall maintenance has been reasonably consistent, yet the parking‑brake issue has recurred after a four‑year interval, indicating a component that may not have been fully rectified or is prone to wear. At 94 678 miles for a 2016 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 9 500 miles, which sits squarely within normal UK usage for a ten‑year‑old car. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would imply long periods of storage, nor is there any evidence of unusually high mileage that would accelerate wear on major drivetrain components. The mileage therefore supports a moderate level of wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension items, but does not by itself raise red flags. For a prospective buyer the recurring parking‑brake deficiency should be investigated thoroughly. Verify that the hand‑brake cable is correctly adjusted, that the rear brake caliper pistons are moving freely and not seized, and that there is no excessive corrosion on the rear brake hardware. On a test drive feel for any pull to one side when the hand‑brake is applied, listen for a faint clunk as the parking‑brake engages, and confirm that the vehicle remains stationary on a gradient when the brake is set. The rear‑disc advisory from 2021 indicates the discs are already pitted; while they were not deemed unsafe at the time, the scoring is likely to progress and could soon require resurfacing or replacement, especially if you notice brake shudder or a pulsating pedal under moderate braking. Given the car’s age, also inspect the tyre condition beyond pressure – look for sidewall cracking, tread recession and uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. Examine the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and test its cranking voltage, as a ten‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Check that all fluid service intervals have been observed: fresh engine oil, clean coolant, and brake fluid that has been replaced at least every two years to avoid moisture‑induced corrosion. Finally, a visual inspection of the chassis and under‑tray for rust, especially around the rear suspension mounting points, will help confirm that the vehicle has not suffered prolonged exposure to moisture while standing idle.