2017 Mercedes-Benz E 220 D AMG Line Premium Auto 1.9L Heavy oil · DM11 SAM

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 30 July 2026, resulted in a PASS with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle was considered roadworthy at the time of examination. The history is broadly reassuring, as the preceding tests from 2023 and 2025 also passed cleanly without any advisories. The only anomaly is a FAIL entry dated 24 July 2026, which immediately preceded the pass just six days later and was also recorded without listed defects. This pattern strongly suggests an administrative or procedural issue, such as a refusal to test or a withdrawn application, rather than a mechanical defect, as the vehicle passed the same standard on the very next presentation. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with no recurring or escalating issues evident from the available test data. With a recorded mileage of 44,594 miles over approximately nine years, this E 220 D has covered an average of around 4,955 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and class. Such light usage typically implies either consistent short-trip urban driving or extended periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Diesel engines used predominantly for short journeys may experience increased carbon build-up in the diesel particulate filter, EGR valve, and turbocharger, while prolonged standing can lead to moisture accumulation in the engine oil, premature ageing of the exhaust system, and flat-spotting or perishing of tyres. The absence of recorded mileage between the 2023 and 2025 tests is also worth noting, as any annual servicing during that interval would need to be verified independently through the service book or digital Mercedes-Benz service records. Given the clean advisory history but the relatively low and potentially irregular usage, a prospective buyer should prioritise age-related rather than mileage-related wear items. The tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall cracking and perishing caused by age rather than tread depth alone, even if they appear within legal limits, and the wheels should be checked for corrosion or sticking calipers that can develop from infrequent use. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles with extensive electrical systems are particularly sensitive to battery degradation, and a weak battery can cause various electronic warning lights and control module faults. Brake discs should be examined for surface corrosion, particularly on the rear axle where standing can lead to pitting, and the handbrake mechanism verified for full engagement and release to prevent binding. Beyond the visible mechanical items, time-based servicing is critical on a 2017 diesel model regardless of mileage. The engine oil and filter, fuel filter, and air filter should be confirmed as recently renewed, as oil will degrade chemically with age even if the vehicle has not covered many miles. Brake fluid should be replaced at least every two years irrespective of mileage to prevent moisture ingress compromising the hydraulic system, and the diesel fuel system should be checked for water contamination and microbial growth if the vehicle has stood unused for long periods. The timing chain, a known item on certain Mercedes-Benz diesel engines, should be inspected for stretch and tensioner wear, and a diagnostic scan should be performed to identify any stored fault codes relating to the AdBlue system, DPF regeneration history, and common rail injection components. A thorough road test should include sustained motorway running to ensure active DPF regeneration occurs without warning lights, and careful listening for any suspension clonks, knocking from the front subframe bushes, or uneven tyre wear that may indicate perished suspension components consistent with the vehicle's age.