2018 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · GV18 GVF

The most recent DVSA examination on 2 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but it followed a presentation on the same date where the vehicle was refused a test certificate due to a nearside rear tyre with a tread depth below the legal 1.6mm minimum, a categorisation deemed dangerous. While the final pass outcome confirms current roadworthiness, the sequence of events indicates an extremely marginal tyre condition at the point of test and suggests that routine pre-MOT tyre inspection may have been neglected. The earlier tests show a broadly stable maintenance pattern, with clean passes in July 2021 and July 2023, followed by a 2022 test recording advisories relating to front brake disc wear and both rear tyres reaching the legal limit. The reappearance of tyre wear advisories on the 2026 test, this time at the front, confirms a recurring pattern of edge wear and tread depletion on this E-Class that warrants close scrutiny by any prospective purchaser. With 173,553 miles accumulated over approximately eight years, this Mercedes-Benz E-Class has averaged around 21,694 miles per annum, which is notably high for a luxury executive saloon and places considerable sustained demand on mechanical components. The mileage progression between tests suggests continuous, high-rate usage rather than periods of standing, which generally benefits components prone to corrosion from inactivity such as brake discs and callipers, but accelerates wear on consumables, suspension items, and drivetrain ancillaries. At this odometer reading, attention should be directed towards the condition of the automatic transmission, engine oil consumption, turbocharger or injector function on diesel variants, and the general integrity of the exhaust system and underbody protection. Given the recurring tyre edge wear advisories across multiple tests, a buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of all four tyres, paying particular attention to both inner and outer shoulder wear patterns, as these typically indicate either incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or compromised coil springs. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would suggest deteriorated anti-roll bar bushes or drop links, both common on high-mileage Mercedes E-Class chassis. The front brake disc advisory from 2022 combined with the mileage suggests the discs and pads may now be approaching a further replacement cycle, so check for any vibration or shudder through the steering wheel under firm braking, and inspect the inner faces of the front discs for lipping or scoring. The vehicle should also be examined for any signs of brake calliper binding, often evidenced by excessive dust accumulation on one wheel or pulling to one side under braking. Beyond the recorded defects, this high-mileage 2018 E-Class requires attention to age and calendar-related service items regardless of MOT status. The 12V battery, typically located in the engine bay or boot depending on variant, should be load-tested as Mercedes vehicles are highly sensitive to voltage irregularities, often manifesting as random warning lights or infotainment faults. Brake fluid should be confirmed as changed within the last two years, as hygroscopic fluid degradation leads to extended pedal travel and reduced stopping efficiency, and engine coolant and transmission fluid should be checked for service history, particularly on the 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox which benefits from periodic fluid and filter changes. The diesel particulate filter, if applicable, should be verified as functioning correctly through active regeneration cycles, and the timing chain or belt service interval confirmed against the manufacturer's schedule. Finally, a compression test or oil analysis may provide reassurance regarding internal engine condition given the substantial mileage recorded.