2004 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · CP04 SXN

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 6 February 2023 recorded a pass but noted an advisory on the nearside rear outer drive‑shaft constant‑velocity boot (6.1.7 (g) (i)). The test three days earlier had failed because of an offside front lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover, the same rear boot issue, and a non‑working front position lamp (5.3.4 (b) (ii), 6.1.7 (g) (i), 4.2.1 (a) (ii)). The pattern of recurring suspension and drivetrain faults shows a worsening maintenance trend rather than a stable or improving one. Mileage accumulation has been steady at roughly 6,100 miles per year, reaching 134,691 miles by February 2023. The gap between the 2022 test (129,534 miles) and the 2023 test is about 5,200 miles over eleven months, indicating regular use. Earlier gaps are larger, but the overall mileage progression is typical for a 22‑year‑old vehicle. The absence of any MOT since February 2023 means the current roadworthiness status is uncertain and likely outdated. A buyer should inspect the rear drive‑shaft CV boot for tears or grease leakage, the front suspension ball‑joint dust covers for dirt ingress, and the rear suspension arm for play (2.4.G.2). The coil spring on the nearside rear shows corrosion (2.4.C.1b) and should be examined for structural integrity. Brake components demand attention: the rear pads are thin (3.5.1g), the offside rear disc is scored (3.5.1h), the parking brake efficiency was below 50 % (1.4.2 (a) (ii)), and the offside rear brake pipe is corroded (1.1.11 (c)). The front position lamp must be functional (4.2.1 (a) (ii)) and the track‑rod end on the nearside front checked for play (2.2.B.1f). Finally, any signs of rust on suspension arms, brake pipes, and the exhaust system should be verified. Given the persistent suspension wear, drivetrain boot deterioration, and brake system degradation, a thorough pre‑purchase inspection is essential to confirm that the identified defects have been rectified and that no further deterioration has occurred since the last MOT. The vehicle’s age and mileage alone do not guarantee reliability; the mechanical history points to components that require careful scrutiny before acquisition.