2012 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · LL12 LFD

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 26 August 2026, although this followed an initial failure on the same day. The overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be worsening. While the vehicle achieved clean passes in 2023 and 2024, the 2025 and 2026 records reveal a pattern of neglect regarding the braking system and tyres. The recurrence of brake pipe corrosion and disc wear across multiple years suggests a reactive approach to maintenance rather than a proactive one, indicating that critical wear items are being left until they are flagged by an inspector. With 110,534 recorded miles over 14 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,895 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a luxury saloon of this age, suggesting it has not suffered from extreme high-mileage wear nor the detrimental effects of prolonged standing. However, at this mileage, the drivetrain and suspension components are entering a phase where wear-and-tear items typically require replacement to maintain original factory standards and roadworthiness. The primary area of concern is the braking system. The DVSA records consistently highlight corroded brake pipes and worn, pitted rear brake discs. You must carefully inspect the brake lines for surface rust or flaking, as corrosion on these pipes can lead to hydraulic failure. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises from the rear brakes and feel for a spongy pedal or brake shudder, which would indicate the pitted discs have progressed to a critical state. The repeated advisories for brake hoses and ferrules further suggest that the entire braking circuit may require a comprehensive overhaul to ensure safety and longevity. Attention should also be paid to the tyres and suspension. A dangerous failure for tread depth in 2025 indicates a lapse in basic safety checks. Inspect all four tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could point to misalignment or worn suspension bushes. Additionally, the previous records mention deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage dust covers; listen for clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based fluid changes, such as the automatic transmission oil and brake fluid, have been performed, as these degrade regardless of the moderate annual mileage.