2013 Mercedes-Benz Vito 113 CDI Traveliner 2.1L Diesel · JD02 FTC

The most recent DVSA examination on 14 November 2025 resulted in a PASS classification with no defects or advisories recorded by the testing inspector, indicating the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements on the day of test. It should be noted, however, that a previous test on 10 November 2025 resulted in a FAIL outcome, and while the official record does not detail the specific reasons for that failure, the very tight four-day interval between the failed and passed tests strongly suggests a retest following remedial work or an appeal. Across the recorded MOT history spanning 2022 to 2025, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable maintenance trend, with passes recorded in late 2022, October 2024, and November 2025, and the absence of any advisory notes or minor defects in the official record is a positive indicator that the presenting technician did not identify wear items approaching serviceable limits at the time of those examinations. With a recorded odometer reading of 364,324 miles on a 2013 model year vehicle, this Vito has covered approximately 28,025 miles per year on average, which is exceptionally high for a vehicle of its class and age and well above the typical mileage profile of a domestic-use MPV. There are notable gaps in the MOT testing history, with the previous recorded test dating back to November 2022 and no entry recorded for 2023, which may reflect either a period of non-use requiring an MOT exemption or a recordkeeping omission, but the rapid accumulation of mileage between recorded tests confirms this vehicle has likely been used intensively, possibly as a shuttle or high-occupancy commercial transport given its Traveliner specification. High-mileage diesel applications of this nature place considerable cumulative strain on the engine, turbocharger, clutch, dual-mass flywheel, automatic or manual transmission synchros, and rear axle components, all of which should be regarded as candidates for advanced wear regardless of their immediate MOT status. From a practical inspection standpoint, a prospective buyer should approach this Vito with heightened scrutiny of the mechanical items most affected by sustained high annual usage. On a test drive, listen carefully for any suspension clunks or knocking that may indicate worn coil springs, deteriorating anti-roll bar bushes, or fatigued top mount bearings, particularly given the heavy unladen and passenger-carrying duty this vehicle is likely to have endured. Inspect all four tyres thoroughly for both uneven tread wear patterns indicative of alignment or suspension geometry issues, and examine the sidewalls for any perishing or cracking consistent with age-related rubber degradation, as tyres fitted to lower-mileage vehicles of similar vintage can deteriorate from calendar age alone. The braking system warrants particular attention, including a check for brake disc lipping, corrosion pitting on vented discs, and any signs of binding calipers or a spongy or uneven brake pedal, while a thorough under-bonnet inspection should assess the condition of drive belts, coolant and brake fluid for age-related degradation, and any evidence of oil weepage from the OM651 diesel engine, which is known for injector and balance shaft concerns at high mileage. Beyond the MOT-tested items, additional checks appropriate to this mileage and age profile include verification of the full service book history with documented stamp intervals, ideally corroborated by independent invoices, since continuous high-mileage operation demands strict adherence to shortened service intervals for oil, fuel and air filtration. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as diesel vehicles with frequent short cold-start cycles can suffer premature battery failure, and the charging system output should be confirmed. Examine the underside of the vehicle on a ramp for any structural corrosion, exhaust system integrity particularly around the DPF and turbo downpipe joints, and condition of the propshaft centre bearing and universal joints if applicable. Finally, request evidence of timing chain replacement history on the OM651 engine, as this is a known service item that, if neglected at this mileage, can result in catastrophic engine damage, and confirm the operational status of the diesel particulate filter through live diagnostic data rather than relying solely on the absence of an MOT emissions advisory.