2009 Mercedes-Benz E 3.5L Diesel · FN09 EWF

A clean and consistent record of roadworthiness defines this 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with the most recent assessment on 19 November 2024 resulting in a pass with no advisories or defects recorded. The vehicle has demonstrated a stable pattern of compliance over several test cycles, having passed on 18 October 2022 and 13 November 2023 without any flagged issues. It is worth noting that two earlier entries on 13 October 2022 and 13 November 2024 show failures without defects recorded, which typically indicates a tester-driven cancellation or an administrative re-test rather than a mechanical rejection. The absence of any advisory notes across five years of testing suggests that wear items such as tyres, brakes, suspension components, and exhaust systems have consistently remained within legal and serviceable limits, pointing to a well-maintained mechanical condition for a vehicle of this age. With 112,028 miles recorded over approximately seventeen years, the car has averaged around 6,590 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of its vintage. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest extended periods off the road, which is mechanically beneficial as prolonged standing can accelerate deterioration of components such as brake calipers, fuel system seals, and underbody corrosion. The steady annual accumulation implies regular operation, which generally keeps lubricants circulating, prevents moisture buildup in oils and fluids, and maintains consistent wear patterns across drivetrain and suspension parts. The mileage is sufficiently high to confirm that consumable items have been exercised through their normal service life, yet not extreme enough to raise immediate concerns about major mechanical fatigue in the engine or transmission. For a prospective buyer, the lack of recorded advisories means there is no specific component flagged in the MOT history that demands immediate inspection, though a vehicle of this age and mileage will inevitably require attention to common Mercedes-Benz E-Class wear areas. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as the E-Class W212 generation is known for wear in the lower control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and front coil springs. Pay attention to any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which could indicate front disc warping, and check for a firm, consistent brake pedal feel without excessive travel, as the electronic parking brake calipers can suffer from binding rear mechanisms. Steering should remain precise without significant play or pulling to either side, particularly under braking. Additionally, inspect the vehicle from underneath on a ramp if possible, looking for any signs of oil seepage from the engine sump, valve cover gaskets, or the front of the timing chain area, all of which become more common on high-mileage Mercedes petrol and diesel units. Check that all electrical systems operate correctly, including the central infotainment screen, air conditioning, seat adjustments, and the auxiliary battery system if fitted, as complex electronics are a known weak point on this model. Verify that the exhaust system is solid and free from rust at the mounting points and joints, given the vehicle's age and UK road salt exposure. Finally, confirm a complete service history with particular attention to automatic transmission fluid changes, brake fluid renewal, and coolant replacement, as neglect in these areas on a 2009 E-Class can lead to significantly more costly repairs than the clean MOT record might otherwise suggest.