2016 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · EN16 VVS

The vehicle presents a mixed mechanical picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 24 October 2024 at 343,800 miles, passed but flagged four distinct advisories, indicating a worsening trend compared to the clean records of previous years. Both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes were noted as worn, though not yet resulting in excessive movement. The rear brake pads were wearing thin, and the rear brake discs were worn, pitted, or scored. These are not immediate failures, but they signal that the car has entered a phase of accelerated component fatigue. The trend is clearly deteriorating, moving from a period of zero defects to multiple wear items surfacing simultaneously. The mileage accumulation is exceptionally high for a 2016 vehicle. Covering 343,800 miles over roughly ten years equates to approximately 34,380 miles per year, far exceeding the typical UK annual average of 7,000 to 12,000 miles. The record shows a particularly steep climb between the clean test on 22 August 2023 at 310,432 miles and the October 2024 test at 343,800 miles, representing 33,368 miles in just over twelve months. This sustained high-intensity use places considerable stress on suspension bushes, brake components, drivetrain mounts, and structural underbody parts. The earlier years, from 2020 to 2022, show a more moderate accumulation of roughly 10,000 miles per year, suggesting the car may have been used more heavily in its later life or subjected to prolonged long-distance commuting. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension. The recurring advisories for lower suspension arm pin or bush wear, first noted on the offside front ball joint in August 2021 and now affecting both sides in 2024, suggest these components are degrading under sustained load. Excessive play or deterioration here directly affects steering precision and tyre wear. The rear braking system also demands close attention. Worn pads and scored or pitted discs at the rear indicate either deferred replacement or a binding caliper condition that generates excessive heat and uneven disc wear. Have a technician measure disc thickness and check caliper slide pins and piston operation. Beyond the flagged items, the sheer mileage warrants a careful underbody examination. Inspect subframes, suspension mounting points, and structural corrosion protection for signs of cracking or advanced rust, particularly around the rear suspension trailing arms and front strut towers common on the W213 E-Class. Check for oil leaks from the engine, gearbox, and power steering rack, as high-mileage units are prone to seal and gasket degradation. The clean MOT history between 2021 and 2023 is encouraging, but the cluster of advisories in 2024 confirms that major consumable and structural components are now reaching the end of their serviceable life. Budget for suspension bush replacement, rear brake overhaul, and a comprehensive fluid and filter service before committing to purchase.