2002 Mercedes-Benz E 2.6L Petrol · FA51 ABZ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-12-23 at 127,218 miles confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded across the past two tests. This suggests a stable maintenance history over the last year, though the single failure in January 2025—just three days before passing—stands out as an anomaly. The absence of recurring faults implies no systematic neglect of critical components, but the brief failure window warrants scrutiny of the specific issue, if known, as it could indicate a latent problem requiring closer inspection. The recorded mileage of 127,218 miles over 24 years averages approximately 5,300 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests in early 2025—just 33 miles between failure and pass—is suspicious, as it suggests either an error in the test date or a deliberate attempt to bypass a genuine issue. The longest interval between tests occurred between January 2024 and January 2025, spanning 10,752 miles, yet no defects were recorded. This could imply either meticulous upkeep or a lack of visible wear, though the low mileage itself raises questions about the vehicle’s storage conditions, which may have mitigated some degradation. Given the lack of defects in recent tests, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to wear at this mileage and age. The suspension—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, as Mercedes-Benz models of this era are known for bush deterioration. Brake systems, including caliper binding, disc thickness, and rear drum wear (if applicable), must be checked, especially given the brief failure in early 2025. Structural integrity, particularly around the sills, wheel arches, and subframe, should be assessed for corrosion, as standing vehicles are susceptible to rust penetration. Finally, the exhaust system and catalytic converter should be inspected for leaks or excessive rust, as these are common failure points in older models. The absence of advisories in recent tests does not preclude these issues, so a thorough mechanical review is essential.