2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.2L Diesel · FH04 NSF

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class presents a highly stable maintenance trend, evidenced by a flawless MOT record spanning the last four years. The most recent test on 27 December 2024 at 140,398 miles passed with zero defects, mirroring the clean bills of health recorded in December 2023, December 2022, and December 2021. This consistent absence of advisories or failures indicates diligent upkeep and a lack of recurring mechanical faults, suggesting the previous owner addressed issues proactively rather than letting defects accumulate. The vehicle's lifetime average of roughly 6,382 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a 22-year-old executive saloon, though recent years show a notable uptick in activity. Between the December 2021 test at 104,825 miles and the December 2024 test at 140,398 miles, the car covered 35,573 miles over three years, averaging approximately 11,858 miles annually. This recent increase in mileage accumulation implies the vehicle has been used more actively, placing greater demand on consumable components like brake discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, despite the clean MOT outcomes. Given the lack of documented recurring faults, a prospective buyer must focus on the inherent wear points of a 22-year-old S-Class that has recently been covering above-average mileage. Inspect the Airmatic suspension compressor and air springs for leaks or overnight sinking, a common failure point on this generation. Check the structural integrity of the front and rear subframes, sills, and jacking points for corrosion, as age and mileage can accelerate rust on these heavy steel components. Examine the condition of the brake discs and pads, ensuring the calipers are not binding, and verify the operation of the complex electrical systems, including the pneumatic central locking and climate control.