2005 Mercedes-Benz B-Class 2.0L Diesel · KW05 PXE

The 2005 Mercedes B-Class presents a stable and recently improving roadworthiness profile. The most recent test on 24 March 2026 at 195,713 miles recorded zero defects, a clean sheet that follows a similarly unblemished pass on 17 March 2025 at 184,658 miles. This consecutive run of advisory-free tests indicates that the previous mechanical and corrosion issues flagged in earlier years have been addressed. The maintenance trend is therefore one of resolution rather than deterioration. The mileage accumulation is broadly consistent with the vehicle's age. Between the March 2025 and March 2026 tests, the car covered 11,055 miles, a slight uptick from the roughly 9,300 miles per year averaged over its 21-year life. The longer interval between the March 2024 test at 178,825 miles and the March 2025 test at 184,658 miles shows a more moderate 5,833 miles in that twelve-month period, suggesting the car may have seen lighter use or a period of standing before being returned to regular service. No anomalous gaps appear in the record. The 2024 test on 21 March at 178,825 miles flagged a corroded central rear exhaust box and a worn nearside front tyre, both typical consumable and age-related issues for a vehicle of this vintage. More notable was the 2022 test on 28 March at 154,425 miles, where the tester identified play in the offside steering rack inner joint and a deteriorated central exhaust silencer. The steering rack fault, in particular, points to a wear component that directly affects handling precision. A prospective buyer should have the front suspension, steering rack inner joints, and track rod ends inspected for play on a raised ramp, paying close attention to any perceptible free play at the offside joint. The exhaust system, particularly the centre and rear silencers, should be checked for corrosion and gas leaks, as the 2022 and 2024 advisories suggest a recurring vulnerability to moisture ingress and internal deterioration. Underbody corrosion around mounting points and along the floor pan warrants close visual scrutiny given the vehicle's age and the historical exhaust corrosion pattern.