2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.8L Diesel · LL10 SAL

Four straight clean MOT passes stretching back to 2022, with no advisories or failures logged anywhere in the recorded history, paint a reassuring picture of mechanical roadworthiness for this A-Class. The most recent test on 19 July 2025 returned a pass with no defects recorded, and the prior three annual visits followed exactly the same pattern. While a clean sheet is always a positive indicator, it is worth bearing in mind that the MOT is a minimum standard test rather than a comprehensive health check, and on a thirteen year old Mercedes with over 100,000 miles on the odometer, a completely blank advisory sheet for four consecutive years is somewhat unusual and may simply reflect a vehicle that has been well maintained between tests. With 101,577 miles recorded against roughly thirteen years on the road, the car has covered an average of about 7,800 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical range for its age and means the odometer has not been subjected to extremes in either direction. The mileage progression between tests also appears consistent, with no unusual spikes or long stationary gaps that would suggest an extended lay-up, a replaced instrument cluster, or clocked readings. For an A-Class of this vintage and mileage, this kind of steady usage generally keeps the engine, gearbox, clutch and drivetrain components working rather than suffering the particular issues that arise from short cold starts and infrequent running. Although no advisories have been flagged, a thirteen year old Mercedes of this mileage is entering the period where certain wear items typically begin to demand attention, even if they have not yet crossed the MOT failure threshold. On a test drive, pay particular attention to the suspension: listen for knocking or clonking from the lower wishbones, trailing arms and anti-roll bar drop links over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or clunking through the steering when turning lock to lock, as these are common failure points on the W176 A-Class. Check that the gearshift is smooth and that the dual-clutch automatic, where fitted, does not hesitate or judder excessively on light throttle inputs, and listen for any whine or rumble from the drivetrain. Braking performance should be evaluated carefully, as the absence of brake related advisories over four tests does not preclude the development of binding calipers, corroded disc surfaces or worn pads on a car of this age and mileage. On the road, test for a firm, progressive pedal with no excessive travel, listen for any scraping or grinding on light application, and check for a straight, stable stop without any pulling to either side. Inspect the underside of the vehicle on a ramp if possible for any signs of oil seepage from the engine and transmission, the state of the exhaust system and its mounting rubbers, and any early corrosion on suspension components and the subframe, all of which are areas where age related deterioration can begin before it becomes serious enough to fail the MOT.