2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2.9L Diesel · FX02 AAA

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a recent shift towards reactive repairs rather than preventative care. The most recent test in May 2024 at 90,222 miles identified multiple advisories that were absent in previous years. While the car passed the test, the appearance of worn brake discs and uneven tyre wear indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where consumable components and suspension-related parts require urgent attention. The mileage pattern is consistent with typical usage for a premium executive saloon, averaging approximately 11,300 miles per year. There is a significant jump in usage between February 2022 at 30,904 miles and October 2023 at 75,760 miles, representing over 44,000 miles in just 20 months. This period of high intensity likely accounts for the emergence of the defects seen in the 2023 and 2024 records, as the vehicle moved from low-mileage- heavy operation in a short interval. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking system and suspension geometry. The 2024 advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs, combined with the recurring issue of tyres wearing on the inner edge of the nearside rear, suggests potential alignment issues or worn suspension bushes. The inspector should check for uneven wear across all remaining tyres and ensure the control arms are not showing signs of structural fatigue. Additionally, the condensation in the offside front headlamp should be monitored, as moisture ingress can eventually lead to electrical failure or internal corrosion of the lens housing.