2016 Mercedes-Benz E 3.5L Petrol · DS16 OOA

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 11 April 2026, confirming its roadworthiness status. While the car passed its most recent inspection, the history reveals a recurring trend of neglected suspension components and tyre degradation. The failure on 10 April 2026 regarding the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover highlights a persistent issue, as a similar defect was noted as an advisory in the 2025 test. This pattern suggests that while the vehicle passes, the owner has historically opted for minimal repairs rather than proactive maintenance. The recorded mileage of 22,064 over ten years indicates a very low usage profile of approximately 2,200 miles per annum. This limited activity is punctuated by a notable anomaly in the 2019 test, where the mileage dropped from 12,266 to 9,057 miles, suggesting a potential clerical error or a period of inactivity. The low mileage is a double-edged sword; while mechanical components have seen less stress, the repeated tyre failures and perished rubber indicate the vehicle has likely spent significant time standing idle, which often leads to dry rot and perishing of seals and sidewalls. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of all suspension bushes and ball joint gaiters, as the anti-roll bar linkages have proven to be a recurring weak point. The history of tyre damage and cracking reinforces the need to check the date codes on all four tyres, as age-related degradation is a genuine concern for low-mileage vehicles. Inspect the underside for signs of surface corrosion that can develop during long periods of storage, and confirm that the steering and suspension feel tight during a test drive to ensure that the previous gaiter failures have not allowed grit to damage the underlying joints.