2013 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · FY13 SWJ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-04-10 resulted in a failure, though no specific defects were recorded—an unusual omission that warrants immediate clarification from the seller. The preceding tests show a pattern of instability: two consecutive failures in May 2025 at nearly identical mileages (97,129 and 97,130) before passing in April 2024 and May 2023, suggesting either a temporary oversight or a recurring issue that slipped through testing. The lack of documented faults in failures raises suspicion of either a poorly conducted inspection or a vehicle that consistently meets bare minimum standards without addressing underlying wear. The most recent failure, just three months ago, indicates the vehicle is not currently roadworthy, and the absence of advisories or defects in prior tests suggests the seller may have delayed addressing critical components. The mileage progression of 109,716 miles today, averaging roughly 8,440 miles annually, aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or abrupt jumps in mileage between tests, though the 2025 failures at nearly identical readings suggest the vehicle may have been driven extensively between April 2024 and May 2025 without intervening maintenance. The most notable pattern is the lack of advisories in any test, which could imply either diligent upkeep or a failure to document minor issues that later escalated. Given the vehicle’s age, suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers are likely candidates for gradual degradation, though no direct evidence of such failures appears in the record. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle, given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The repeated failures without recorded defects may indicate a history of binding brakes or worn suspension components that were not formally flagged. Corrosion at wheel arches, subframe, and exhaust mounts should be examined closely, as these areas are common failure points in Mercedes-Benz models of this era. The lack of advisories in prior tests also suggests the seller may have overlooked consumables like brake pads, tyres, or wiper blades—components that, while not failing the MOT, could pose immediate safety risks. The most recent failure itself demands verification of why no defects were noted, as this could signal either a technical error or a vehicle that has been driven despite underlying issues.