2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.5L Diesel · FN12 LSD

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class presents a stable and highly reassuring maintenance trend, culminating in a completely clean pass on 11 December 2025 at 70,640 miles. The tester recorded zero defects, advisories, or failures, indicating the vehicle currently meets all required safety and emissions standards without compromise. This unblemished record over the last five years demonstrates consistent mechanical care and a lack of recurring faults, suggesting the previous owner addressed any wear items proactively rather than allowing issues to persist. The mileage accumulation aligns with exceptionally light use for a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 5,046 miles annually. Between the November 2021 test at 54,757 miles and the December 2025 test at 70,640 miles, the odometer advanced by just 15,883 miles over four years. The annual increments remain remarkably steady, moving from 6,501 miles between 2021 and 2022, down to just 810 miles between 2023 and 2024, before climbing slightly to 5,084 miles in the most recent year. Such low mileage typically reduces wear on consumables and drivetrain components, though prolonged periods of standing can introduce its own issues. Despite the flawless MOT record, a physical inspection remains essential due to the vehicle's age and low-mileage profile. Extended periods of inactivity can cause rubber suspension bushes and seals to perish, while air suspension components—common on the S-Class—may develop slow leaks or compressor faults that do not always trigger an MOT failure. Buyers should closely examine the condition of the brake discs and calipers for surface corrosion, a frequent issue on vehicles that sit idle, and check the tyre sidewalls for age-related cracking, as the rubber degrades regardless of tread depth. Verifying the structural integrity of the underbody for corrosion and testing all electronic systems will confirm whether this low-mileage example has been preserved by careful storage or neglected through disuse.