2018 Mercedes-Benz V 2.1L Diesel · CV68 AHA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a concerning shift toward reactive rather than preventative care. While it passed its latest MOT on 31 December 2025 at 408,715 miles, this followed a significant failure on the same day. The tester identified critical failures across the entire braking system, including thin pads and seriously weakened front discs, alongside a corroded nearside rear coil spring. The fact that these components were only addressed after reaching a failure state suggests that mechanical upkeep has been neglected between service intervals. The mileage profile is extreme, averaging over 51,000 miles per year across its eight-year life. Between January 2022 and January 2025, the vehicle covered 183,490 miles in just three years, representing a rate of over 61,000 miles annually. This high-intensity usage places immense strain on the drivetrain, suspension bushings, and cooling systems. The jump from 118,082 miles in 2022 to over 400,000 miles indicates constant operation which accelerates the wear of heavy-duty components. A physical inspection must focus on the structural integrity of the suspension and the current braking hardware. Given the corroded coil spring and previous wear on anti-roll bar linkages, a buyer should check for play in the control arms and excessive play in the rubber bushes. The recent major brake failure in late 2025 implies the system was pushed to its absolute limit, so inspecting the calipers for binding or signs of fluid leaks is essential. At this mileage, the risk of hidden metal fatigue in the chassis is high, regardless of the recent MOT pass.