2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4.7L Petrol · FX66 NPC

A history of intermittent suspension component wear defines this vehicle's recent MOT profile, despite a clean result in its most recent test on 24 October 2025. While the record shows several years of passing without defects, a significant failure occurred in September 2024 when both the offside and nearside front inner suspension arm ball joints were flagged as excessively worn. This failure necessitated repairs to the steering and suspension linkages, though the subsequent two tests indicate that these specific components have since been addressed and the vehicle has returned to a state of passing with no recorded defects. The recorded mileage of 55,677 miles against a ten-year age profile indicates a low annual accumulation rate of approximately 5,568 miles. This usage pattern suggests the vehicle has been driven significantly less than the national average for a premium saloon of this class. Mechanically, such low mileage can mean less cumulative wear on high-friction components like brake discs and pads, but it also increases the likelihood of components such as rubber suspension bushes or seals perishing due to age rather than physical wear. The consistency of the annual MOT testing intervals suggests a regular inspection cycle despite the low frequency of road use. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the front suspension assembly to ensure the previously failed ball joints and associated linkages are performing correctly. During a test drive, pay close attention to the steering response and listen for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, as these are typical symptoms of worn ball joints or deteriorating suspension bushes. Any sensation of steering wander or a lack of precision in the direction of travel should be treated as a reason for further investigation into the front-end geometry and linkage integrity. Given the low annual mileage, it is also prudent to inspect the condition of rubber components throughout the chassis and engine bay. While the MOT record does not currently show any defects for leaks or perished hoses, the infrequent use of a large-capacity vehicle can sometimes lead to dried-out seals or minor oil weeping from gaskets. Verify that there are no visible signs of fluid loss around the engine or transmission and ensure that the vehicle maintains consistent pressure and performance during a sustained drive to account for any potential issues arising from long periods of stationary use.