2005 Mercedes ML 2.7L Diesel · LB54 HXO

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status, but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend in mechanical neglect. While it passed the test in January 2026 at 86,256 miles, this followed a failure just one day prior due to critical safety defects. The transition from a clean record in late 2023 to multiple failures in 2025 and 2026 suggests that the owner is only addressing the minimum repairs required to pass the MOT test rather than performing preventative maintenance. At a recorded 86,256 miles, the vehicle shows low mileage for its twenty-one years, averaging roughly 4,100 miles per year. However, the data shows a significant gap in usage between the December 2023 test at 83,158 miles and the January 2025 test at 84,872 miles, with only 1,714 miles covered over fourteen months. This low usage pattern often correlates with the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of corrosion, which is evident with the persistent rust issues noted in the records. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and braking system. The record consistently flags corrosion on the rear sub-frame, integral body structure, and brake pipes. While the 2025 tests noted the rigidity was not significantly reduced, the presence of corroded brake flexi hose ferrules and pipes in early 2026 indicates a high risk of fluid failure. The failure on front inner brake pads being below 1.5mm further demonstrates that basic consumable inspections were ignored until they reached a failure state. The suspension also requires close attention due to recurring issues with fractured coil springs, damaged anti-roll bar linkages, and perished track rod end gaiters. The persistent central front oil leak noted since at least January 2025 suggests a slow leak that has remained unaddressed. Given the age of the vehicle and the nature of the faults, these components have likely suffered from environmental degradation despite the low annual mileage.