2004 Mercedes E 3.2L Diesel · DS04 WPP

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a trend of reactive rather than proactive maintenance on critical components. While the most recent test in February 2023 at 177,256 miles resulted in a pass, it flagged persistent play in both front wheel bearings and a nearside rear tyre. This follows a pattern of unresolved issues from previous years, including an engine management light noted in 2022, suggesting that mechanical faults are only addressed when they reach the point of inspection failure. At 22 years old, the recorded 177,256 miles represent an annual average of approximately 8,000 miles, which is consistent with typical usage for an older executive saloon. However, the data shows a significant gap in records between March 2020 at 123,067 miles and February 2021 at 150,270 miles, where the vehicle covered nearly 28,000 miles in a single year. This burst of activity likely accelerated the degradation of the rubber components and brake lines noted in the subsequent tests. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and braking system. The record from 2021 highlights corrosion on both front and rear brake pipes, as well as corroded rear suspension arms, which are common points of failure on this model. The 2020 failure due to sill covers preventing a full inspection is a high-risk indicator of hidden structural rust on the main sills. Furthermore, the recurring mention of wheel bearing play and previous failures of ball joint dust covers indicate that the entire suspension and steering assembly is under significant stress and should be checked for signs of premature wear or imminent failure.