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Official DVLA Record

2001 Mercedes ML 2.7L Diesel · LC51 AHN

LC51 AHN

2001 Mercedes ML (2.7L, diesel). First registered 01/09/2001. Recorded mileage 132,804 miles. MOT status: Expired. Currently declared SORN.

Make & Model
MERCEDES ML
Year / Origin
2001 · Stanmore (North London)
Safety Recall
Unknown
MOT Status
Valid until 25/01/2025
Road Tax
SORN
Recorded Mileage
132,804 mi
ULEZ Compliance
Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
Fuel & Engine
DIESEL · 2.7L
Reliability Guide
Common Faults
MOT Status
Expired
Valid until 25/01/2025
Tax Status
SORN
Statutory Off Road (SORN)
Fuel Type
DIESEL
Year
2001
Engine
2688cc

LC51 AHN Key Findings

  • 1 MOT test recorded
  • Latest MOT passed on 26/01/2024
  • 132,804 miles recorded at latest MOT
  • 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
  • Recurring lighting items (2 mentions)

Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.

Updating live data
MOT Roadworthiness Analysis
60
/ 100 · Average
DVSA Test Records Evaluated

MOT Roadworthiness: Average

This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.

✗ MOT Expired or Failed
! Tax Status Unknown
✓ Exceptional MOT pass rate (100%)
! Older vehicle
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Full History Report

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LC51 AHN MOT History

Vehicle record last updated: 31 Jul 2026, 16:37
MOT Analysis

Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

1 MOT test are recorded for this 2001 Mercedes Ml (LC51 AHN) between January 2024 and January 2024.

The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.

The record shows no MOT failures, although 4 advisory notices note items to monitor.

Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.

In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.

PASS
FAIL
ADVISORY

Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory

Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.

Buying Score
45/100
Risk Level
High
High
Est. Annual Cost
£1,400-£1,800
Mileage
At 132,804 miles, the mileage is typical...

Our Verdict

Proceed with extreme caution. While this Mercedes-Benz ML has a consistent passing record, the history of significant corrosion and ongoing suspension issues makes it a high-risk purchase for a budget-conscious buyer.

When inspecting this vehicle, your primary focus must be on the chassis and suspension. The 2016 MOT history highlighted extensive corrosion on the rear subframe, shock absorber bodies, and coil springs. You should check if these components have been replaced or if the corrosion is merely surface-level, as structural integrity is paramount on a heavy SUV like the ML.

Secondly, pay close attention to the recent advisories regarding the anti-roll bar bushes and the track rod end. These suggest the suspension is beginning to feel loose, which is common for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Ensure you test drive the car on uneven surfaces to listen for knocks or clunks. Finally, ask for a detailed service history to see if the oil leaks mentioned in 2016 were ever professionally rectified, as diesel engine leaks can lead to significant repair bills.

As a 2.7L diesel, running costs will be moderate compared to petrol equivalents, but higher than a standard hatchback. Fuel economy will depend heavily on driving style and load, but expect typical diesel SUV figures. Tax and insurance will be influenced by its age and engine size, likely sitting in a mid-range bracket.

Maintenance costs on this model can escalate quickly due to the complexity of the suspension and potential engine oil leaks. While parts are available, the labour required for heavy-duty SUV repairs can be expensive. Budget for regular replacement of tyres and brake components, which have appeared as recurring advisories in the MOT history.

You must conduct a thorough underside inspection. Specifically, look for the 'offside front body mount corrosion' and 'rear subframe corrosion' noted in the 2016 MOT. If the subframe or body mounts are heavily pitted or thinning, the car may be nearing the end of its structural life.

Check the suspension components closely. The most recent MOT (2024) flagged worn anti-roll bar bushes and a track rod end with 'slight play'. Additionally, inspect the brake pipes; the 2024 advisory noted an offside brake pipe was 'corroded and covered in grease', which can sometimes be a tactic to hide rust. Ensure the brake lines are clean and free of heavy oxidation.

This 2001 silver Mercedes-Benz ML 270 CDI (2688cc diesel) has covered 132,804 miles as of its last MOT in early 2024. While it has avoided major MOT failures in recent years, the historical record shows a pattern of structural corrosion and recurring suspension wear. It represents a high-mileage luxury SUV that may require significant upcoming investment to remain roadworthy.

Specific aggregate data for this generation of ML is unavailable, but historical MOT records for this specific vehicle suggest common issues with suspension bushings and chassis corrosion.

Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.

Data Sources

DVSA

Official MOT test logs & failure reasons

DVLA

Tax, registration & powertrain specs

Experian

Finance, stolen markers & total loss

AI Analysis

Historical fault & advisory patterns