2016 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · KW65 WYY

With eight MOT tests recorded since 2019 and only one failure alongside a single advisory, this 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class presents a largely clean roadworthiness record, though the lone failure does warrant attention. The most recent test on 2025-09-08 was a pass with no defects, continuing a run of four consecutive clean passes from 2023 onwards. The single failure, recorded on 2022-05-30, cited an inoperative engine MIL (malfunction indicator lamp), which on the same day was also accompanied by a pass — suggesting the vehicle was repaired and re-presented successfully. Prior to that, the only flagged item across the entire history is a nearside front tyre advisory from May 2021 noting worn edges. Mechanically, the dominant story is one of consistency on test, with no recurring advisories on suspension, braking, corrosion, or exhaust components, and no structural concerns raised. Against the ten-year age of the vehicle, the recorded 143,975 miles equates to roughly 14,400 miles annually, which is notably above average for a car of this vintage. The mileage progression across tests shows steady accumulation without any unusual gaps or plateaus, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than laid up for extended periods. This level of annual mileage places greater mechanical demand on consumables such as brake pads and discs, tyres, and suspension components, and accelerates wear on drivetrain items including dual-mass flywheels, engine mounts, and automatic transmission mechatronics. The absence of any advisories relating to these wear items across the more recent higher-mileage tests is a reasonable indicator that components have been replaced as needed, though MOT testing alone does not confirm the quality or specification of any non-tested parts. For a prospective buyer, the priority areas on inspection should be the components most stressed by sustained high-mileage running. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front end over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, control arm linkages, or top mount deterioration — items commonly replaced on high-mileage Mercedes saloons of this generation. Check for any steering vagueness, pulling under braking, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle, as the 2021 advisory flagged edge wear on the nearside front tyre and uneven geometry can recur if bushes or track rod ends have since worn. Under the bonnet, inspect for any oil misting or residue around the cam cover, oil filter housing, and turbo plumbing (if diesel), as Mercedes inline engines of this era frequently exhibit seepage at higher mileages. Given the single failure relating to the engine MIL, ensure the vehicle starts cold without any warning lights remaining illuminated and that the engine management system reports no stored faults via a diagnostic scan. Given the vehicle's mileage, a thorough inspection of the braking system is also advisable even though no MOT advisories have been raised on brakes or related components. Feel for any pedal judder or vibration under firm stopping, which can indicate warped front discs — a frequent replacement item at this mileage band. Inspect the underside for any surface corrosion on brake pipes, subframe mounting points, and suspension arms, paying particular attention to the rear axle assembly and exhaust hangers, as these areas are commonly flagged on higher-mileage German saloons. Confirm that the engine and transmission operate smoothly through all gears, watching for any hesitation, flare, or harsh downshifts that would suggest automatic transmission wear. Finally, verify that all warning lamps illuminate correctly at ignition and extinguish promptly after start, given the prior MIL-related failure, and ensure the service history supports recent replacement of spark plugs, air and oil filters, and any scheduled Mercedes-specific maintenance items appropriate to the engine variant fitted.