2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.0L Diesel · JT02 ABT

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent test in April 2026 at 43,235 miles resulted in an initial failure due to a major exhaust leak and multiple worn tyres on the nearside side. While the vehicle passed immediately after rectification, the presence of a structural exhaust failure suggests the previous owner only addressed mechanical faults once they prevented a legal MOT pass. At 43,235 miles, this twelve-year-old S-Class has covered exceptionally low mileage, averaging approximately 3,600 miles per year. There is a notable gap in usage between January 2023 and April 2024, where the car covered only 685 miles, followed by a rapid increase of over 17,000 miles between April 2024 and April 2026. This erratic driving pattern often leads to the degradation of rubber components, seals, and brake hardware due to long periods of stagnation, which contrasts with the low overall odometer reading. A buyer must personally inspect the exhaust system to ensure the major leak identified in April 2026 was properly repaired rather than patched. The 2024 record already flagged thin front brake pads and worn discs, indicating that the braking system is reaching the end of its service life. Given the low-mileage history, the inspector should also check for perished suspension bushes and degraded brake lines, as these components fail due to age rather than distance. The uneven tyre wear noted in the 2026 test also suggests a potential alignment issue that requires professional attention to prevent premature replacement of new tyres.