2013 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · FH62 VCG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 23 May 2025, resulted in a full pass with no recorded defects, and the preceding four examinations (June 2024, June 2023, January 2023 and January 2022) also returned clean passes. This uninterrupted succession of successful tests indicates a stable maintenance pattern; there are no signs of deteriorating condition or recurring faults, suggesting that the vehicle has been kept in a road‑worthy state throughout the recent period. At 100 394 miles on a 2013 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7 700 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. The mileage is not excessive, but the relatively modest per‑year figure may also imply periods of low utilisation or extended storage. Such intervals can lead to age‑related wear on components that are not mileage‑dependent, for example rubber seals, battery plates and corrosion‑prone chassis sections, even though the overall wear on wear items such as tyres, brakes and suspension will be less severe than on a high‑mileage counterpart. Given the clean MOT record and moderate mileage, the buyer should focus on age‑related inspections. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or delamination and verify tread depth; the DOT code will reveal the tyre’s date of manufacture, and tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. Inspect the under‑carriage, wheel arches and suspension mounting points for surface rust, especially on the front sub‑frame, control‑arm bushes and coil‑spring mounts, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation, low cranking voltage and any swelling of the case, and confirm that the electrolyte level is adequate if it is a conventional lead‑acid type. Verify that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are topped up and that the oil appears clear, the coolant is the correct colour and the brake fluid has not darkened, indicating the need for a calendar change. During a road test, listen for any clunk, squeak or knock that may emanate from worn suspension bushings, loose steering tie‑rods or deteriorating shock absorbers, and feel for any vibration or pulsation through the steering wheel that could point to tyre imbalance or wheel‑bearing wear. The brake pedal should be firm and free of sponginess; any judder or grinding on initial application may reveal disc surface rust or caliper binding that can be remedied with a proper brake service. Observe the exhaust for excessive smoke or unusual tones, and ensure that all dashboard warning lights extinguish after start‑up. Finally, request the service book and confirm that scheduled intervals – particularly timing‑chain or timing‑belt service, if applicable to this engine – have been observed, and consider a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to certify that all structural and mechanical elements remain within their design tolerances.