2017 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · HV67 LFT

The most recent MOT on 18 September 2025 recorded a failure for a major defect – the engine malfunction indicator lamp was inoperative or indicated a fault – which overrides the earlier pass result for that same date. This represents a clear deterioration from the previous three years, each of which showed a clean pass with no recorded defects, apart from advisory tyre observations in 2024. The trend therefore shifts from a stable, fault‑free history to a concerning engine‑related issue that must be resolved before the vehicle can be considered roadworthy. At 68 028 miles the car averages roughly 7 500 miles per year over its nine‑year life, a figure well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be benign but may also mask age‑related degradation of components that are not mileage‑dependent. The modest annual mileage suggests that wear on high‑stress items such as the clutch, gearbox and suspension should be relatively light, yet the engine fault indicates that the problem is not simply a function of distance travelled. Prospective buyers should have the engine fault diagnosed on a qualified scan tool to retrieve any stored fault codes and to confirm whether the MIL failure is due to a sensor fault, wiring issue or an underlying engine condition such as mis‑fire, fuel delivery or emissions control failure. On a test drive watch for any loss of power, irregular idle, hesitation under load or unusual exhaust smoke, as these are typical symptoms of a malfunction that triggered the MIL. The tyre advisories from 2024 also merit immediate attention: the near‑side front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and the off‑side rear tyre shows edge cracking, indicating perishing rubber; both should be inspected for uniform wear, sidewall integrity and replaced promptly to avoid unsafe handling or blow‑outs. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is advisable. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify its cranking voltage, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, pitting or uneven wear that can cause shudder, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Inspect all suspension bushings, rubber mounts and coil springs for cracks, corrosion or loss of compliance, as age can cause hardening even with limited use. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Addressing these points will give a realistic picture of the car’s current condition and the likely cost of bringing it back to a reliable, road‑worthy state.