2009 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.7L Diesel · LD59 FVG

The most recent MOT inspection on 19 September 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of recent instability and reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The transition from a dangerous failure in late 2025 to a pass indicates that critical safety items, specifically the brake pads which were recorded below the legal 1.5mm limit, have been addressed. However, the presence of new advisories regarding tyre wear and brake pipe corrosion suggests that while the immediate life-threatening defects were rectified, the vehicle is entering a phase where wear-and-tear components are failing in quick succession. The history of recurring issues with drive shaft CV boots and brake components indicates a pattern of addressing faults only when they reach a threshold of failure, which is common in older vehicles but requires closer scrutiny. With 133,060 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,800 miles per year. This is considered typical for a personal use vehicle and suggests a consistent usage pattern rather than extreme high-mileage motorway driving or excessive short-trip urban use. From a mechanical perspective, this mileage level is significant for a 2009 Mercedes-Benz A-Class. You should expect to see substantial wear on consumable items such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and various rubber seals. While the mileage is not excessively high for the age, the cumulative distance means that drivetrain components and cooling system integrity should be closely monitored for age-related degradation. During your test drive, pay close attention to the braking system and the steering. The advisory regarding the offside rear brake pipe being corroded and covered in grease is a concern; the grease may have been used to mask active corrosion or leaks. Listen for any irregular noises from the rear of the car and feel for any pulsation through the brake pedal, which could indicate uneven disc wear or sticking calipers. Furthermore, the advisories for both offside and nearside front tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges suggest a potential alignment issue or worn suspension geometry. If you notice the car pulling to one side or hear a rhythmic clicking sound when turning the steering wheel, this could indicate that the previously noted CV boot deterioration has led to joint wear. Beyond the recorded MOT history, you must perform a physical inspection of the vehicle's age-related condition. Check the sidewalls of all tyres for perishing or hairline cracking, which can occur even if tread depth is sufficient. Given the vehicle's age and the history of brake component issues, inspect the underside for heavy scale or structural corrosion. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, particularly brake fluid and engine oil, have been performed according to manufacturer intervals rather than just MOT cycles. Check the engine bay for any signs of weeping from gaskets or hoses, as rubber components on a 17-year-old vehicle are prone to hardening and failure.