2021 MAN TGE 3.140 2.0L Diesel · DE71 EXC

High annual mileage and a recent history of brake-related failures define the mechanical profile of this MAN TGE. While the vehicle achieved a clean pass on 03 December 2025, the preceding test on 23 December 2024 resulted in a failure due to a dangerous defect regarding the offside rear brake pads being below the legal thickness limit. This failure was accompanied by a major defect involving the 13-pin trailer electrical socket and an advisory for thinning nearside rear brake pads. The transition from a failure involving critical braking components to a clean pass in late 2025 indicates that these specific wear items have been addressed, though the pattern highlights the necessity of monitoring heavy-duty braking systems on this chassis. The recorded mileage of 112,449 miles against a 2021 registration indicates a high-intensity usage pattern, averaging approximately 22,490 miles per year. This level of annual accumulation is significantly higher than typical passenger vehicle usage and suggests the vehicle has likely been used for consistent long-distance transit or commercial operations. Mechanically, this high-frequency usage increases the rate of wear on consumable components such as brake discs, pads, and tyres, and places greater demand on the suspension bushes, dampers, and drivetrain components compared to lower-mileage examples of the same age. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the braking system and the electrical integrity of the towing setup. Given the previous failure of the offside rear brake pads and the advisory on the nearside rear, a test drive should include several controlled applications of the brakes to check for any uneven pulling to one side or any high-pitched squealing that might indicate uneven pad wear or sticking calipers. Additionally, the 13-pin trailer socket must be tested with a trailer or a diagnostic plug to ensure the electrical connection is fully operational and that there is no intermittent loss of signal to the trailer lamps, which was a recorded major defect in late 2024. Beyond the braking and electrical systems, the high mileage necessitates a thorough check of the vehicle's underside for signs of accelerated wear on suspension linkages and steering components. During the test drive, pay close attention to any knocks, clunks, or vibrations felt through the steering wheel or floorpan when traversing uneven surfaces, as these can be symptoms of worn suspension bushes or ball joints common in high-mileage commercial vehicles. Checking for any signs of fluid leaks around the engine and gearbox is also advisable, as the increased thermal cycles associated with high annual mileage can lead to seal degradation over time.