2003 Mercedes-Benz E 3.2L Diesel · FT03 DFG

The vehicle is currently recorded as having failed its most recent MOT on 11 December 2024 at 234,166 miles, indicating a marginal decline in roadworthiness since the last pass in August 2023. The pattern of a pass, a failure, and then another pass suggests the maintenance trend is neither clearly improving nor deteriorating, but rather fluctuating and requiring attention to resolve the underlying cause of the recent failure. Mileage has accumulated to 234,166 miles over 23 years, averaging roughly 10,200 miles per annum, which sits within normal usage for a vehicle of this age. Between the February 2023 pass at 228,680 miles and the December 2024 failure the odometer rose by 5,486 miles, a modest increase that aligns with the earlier, slower accrual of 3,405 miles between December 2021 and February 2023. No abrupt spikes or prolonged gaps appear in the record, implying consistent, albeit moderate, use. A prospective buyer should verify that the failure recorded in December 2024 has been remedied, focusing on components typically flagged in MOT failures such as brake efficiency, light operation, and emissions compliance. Inspect the brake discs and pads for wear, ensure the suspension bushings and coil springs show no excessive play or corrosion, and check tyre tread depth and condition. A visual examination for structural rust, especially around wheel arches and undercarriage, will confirm the integrity of the chassis. Finally, confirm that all advisory items noted at the time of the failure have been addressed and that the vehicle can achieve a clean pass on a subsequent MOT. A thorough test drive will reveal any binding brakes, steering irregularities, or unusual noises that may not have surfaced in the recorded tests.