2004 Mercedes ML 2.7L Diesel · LB54 FZG

Most recent MOT (2021‑10‑28) The latest test recorded a failure for the off‑side track‑rod end ball joint showing excessive play. This is a safety‑critical steering component, and the defect would have required rectification before the vehicle could be re‑tested. No other defects were listed on the same date, so the failure appears isolated to that ball‑joint. Recurring mechanical pattern Across the three‑year MOT record the same areas keep re‑appearing: Steering / suspension ball joints – slight play was noted on the off‑side front inner linkage (2019) and on the rear lower arms (2019). The 2021 failure on the track‑rod end ball joint shows the problem has progressed to a serious level. Brake system wear – corrosion on the rear brake pipe (2019) and thin front/rear pads plus a pitted front disc (2019) indicate that the braking hardware is ageing and may need replacement. Rear coil springs – both rear springs were recorded as fractured in the 2019 failure, a major structural fault that would have required fitting new springs. Tyre condition – slight cracking on the outer edges of the front tyres was flagged in 2019, suggesting the rubber has begun to perish, which is common on older, low‑mileage cars that sit for long periods. Oil leak – a minor front‑engine oil leak was noted in 2019 and has not been recorded again, but any leak should be checked for recurrence. Trend analysis The 2019 MOT was the worst, with a long list of serious defects.