2015 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · KA59 PAL

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 November 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory that the front brake disc is worn, pitted or scored, although not yet critically weakened. Over the preceding six years the vehicle’s MOT record shows a pattern of deterioration: a dangerous tyre fracture and exposed tyre cords in late‑2024, multiple dangerous tyre‑tread failures and a missing wheel fixing together with a supplementary restraint system fault in 2022, and recurring brake‑pad and brake‑disc wear advisories in 2021. While the 2025 pass indicates that the most serious defects have been remedied, the history points to a generally worsening trend that has only recently been halted. At 65,964 mi the car averages just under 6,000 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 mi annually for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often suggests periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage. Age‑related wear on rubber components, corrosion of suspension and brake hardware, and electrolyte depletion in the battery are likely to be more significant than kilometre‑based wear, although the low annual mileage does mean that consumables such as clutch plates and engine bearings have been subjected to relatively gentle duty cycles. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set the highest priority. The record of fractured and under‑tread tyres indicates that the current set may be approaching the end of its service life, and that the remaining tyres could be suffering from dry‑rot, sidewall cracking or internal cord damage despite acceptable tread depth. Inspect each tyre for any visible cracks, bulges, or hard spots, and feel for uneven wear that might hint at mis‑aligned suspension or worn steering components. During a test drive listen for thumps or clunks when passing bumps, which could betray deteriorated suspension bushes, worn coil springs or a failing rear axle bearing. The front brake disc advisory should be followed up by measuring disc thickness and checking for scoring; any pulsation in the pedal or shudder when braking would confirm the need for disc resurfacing or replacement, and the pads should be examined for wear below the recommended minimum. Verify that the SRS warning lamp is extinguished; a lingering fault may indicate a sensor or airbag module issue that could be costly to rectify. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for perishing and the wheel rims for corrosion, especially if the car has been stored outdoors. Check the under‑carriage for rust on suspension arms, sub‑frame and exhaust hangers, and verify that all chassis bolts are tight. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, perform a load test, as long periods of inactivity can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Finally, confirm that the service history includes calendar‑based fluid changes—engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil—since these degrade over time regardless of mileage, and ensure that the timing chain or belt (as applicable) has been inspected or replaced in line with the manufacturer’s service interval. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable, safe condition.