2012 Mercedes ML 250 2.1L Diesel · KM62 ACU

A persistent pattern of front‑tyre wear together with a recent major failure of the off‑side front outer drive‑shaft CV boot dominates the mechanical story of this 2012 Mercedes‑Benz ML 250; the 19 June 2026 MOT recorded both advisories for front‑tyre tread at the legal limit and a definitive failure for the CV boot split, meaning the joint no longer prevents dirt ingress. Earlier tests show the same tyre‑wear advisories recurring in 2021 and a similar CV‑boot deterioration noted in the 29 January 2024 MOT, indicating that these issues have not been fully resolved over time. At 104 419 miles the vehicle averages roughly 7 500 miles per year, a figure that sits within normal UK usage for a fourteen‑year‑old SUV. The MOT chronology reveals no large mileage jumps between tests, suggesting a relatively steady utilisation rather than periods of intense short‑term use. However, the modest annual accumulation still implies that consumables such as suspension bushings, brake pads and tyre rubber have been subjected to a decade of wear, and the recorded mileage should be taken as a baseline for assessing component life rather than an indicator of overall condition. Prospective buyers should focus first on the tyre package: the near‑side and off‑side front tyres are flagged as worn close to the legal limit and the off‑side rear tyre shows early cracking. On a test drive, feel for any vibration or pulsation at speeds above 50 mph and inspect the sidewalls for bulges or exposed cords. Replacing all four tyres is advisable, and the new set should be matched to the vehicle’s load rating. The CV boot failure on the off‑side front drive shaft is a structural concern; listen for a whine or clunk when accelerating from a standstill or when the steering wheel is turned under load, and check for grease splatter around the joint. Replacement of the CV boot—or the entire axle assembly if the joint is contaminated—will be required to restore reliable power delivery. The 2020 MOT failure on the near‑side front brake pads, together with a minor advisory on front disc wear, signals that the front braking system may be approaching the end of its service life. During a road test, apply the brakes firmly and note any pulsation, excessive pedal travel or a high‑pitched squeal, which would indicate pad or disc wear beyond the advisory level. The 2024 headlamp lens misting should be inspected for clarity, as reduced illumination can affect night‑time safety. Finally, verify that the off‑side front outer drive‑shaft joint, previously noted as severely deteriorated, shows no excessive play or oil leaks, and confirm that the vehicle’s steering feels steady without pull to either side. Addressing these specific items will be essential to bring the ML 250 to a road‑worthy state.