2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L Diesel · KM62 APV

Front brake disc wear and a developing front‑rack steering play dominate the MOT record, with the 7 February 2025 test still passing but flagging both nearside and offside front discs as worn, pitted or scored, and noting front‑rack inner joint play for the second consecutive year. Earlier tests also highlighted a smooth‑wearing brake pedal and a rear anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint with slight play, indicating a consistent, low‑level erosion of the braking and steering subsystems rather than an isolated fault. At 419,909 mi the Sprinter has accumulated roughly 30,000 mi per annum, a mileage level that exceeds typical commercial‑van usage and accelerates wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres, suspension bushings and steering components. The MOT history shows no gaps in annual testing, meaning the mileage has been recorded consistently and the vehicle has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This high‑kilometre profile suggests that the brake discs, pads and steering rack have been subjected to substantial thermal and mechanical cycles, and that the rear roll‑bar end bushes flagged in 2017 are likely to be nearing the end of their service life. When inspecting the vehicle, feel the brake pedal for a soft or spongy response and listen for any judder or squeal when applying the brakes, especially at higher speeds where disc surface irregularities become audible. Test the steering by applying light and firm inputs at low speed; any excessive free play, clunking, or uneven return to centre may confirm the rack inner joint wear noted in the recent MOT. Examine the rear roll‑bar end bushes and anti‑roll‑bar linkage for looseness or knocking over bumps, and check the rear tyre tread depth for wear close to the legal limit, as the 2017 advisories indicated the tyres were already near that threshold. Inspect the windscreen for the reported damage and verify that all reflectors and side‑indicators are intact, as minor defects have been recorded repeatedly. Given the pattern of brake‑disc wear, steering‑rack play and ageing suspension bushings, budgeting for a full brake‑disc set replacement, possible rack refurbishment or replacement, and rear roll‑bar bush renewal would be prudent. A thorough road‑test that includes braking from 30 mph, steering feel checks on both straight‑line and cornering, and a ride‑over on uneven pavement will reveal whether the advisories have progressed to functional defects or remain within acceptable limits for a vehicle with this mileage.