2015 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · LM65 PCV

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-10 recorded a clean pass, but the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring brake-related issues and tyre wear advisories that suggest a history of under-maintenance or gradual deterioration. While the majority of tests have passed without defects, the failures in 2022 and 2024 highlight persistent problems with brake pad and disc wear, near-side rear brake binding, and offside tyre edge wear. The presence of multiple advisories—particularly the near-side rear brake binding and exposed tyre cords in 2022—indicates that the vehicle has not been serviced to address these critical issues promptly, which could escalate into more severe mechanical or safety concerns if left unaddressed. The fact that the 2024 failure included both front and rear brake components worn to near or beyond legal limits underscores a systemic failure to maintain brake system integrity, warranting immediate attention to prevent further compromise of stopping performance. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 91,426 miles at 11 years old represents an average annual usage of approximately 8,311 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the significant gap between the 2022 failure and the subsequent clean tests—nearly two years without an MOT—suggests either a period of reduced use or a delay in addressing critical failures. This could imply that the vehicle was either stored for extended periods without regular checks or that the owner prioritised other vehicles over maintenance. Over time, prolonged standing can exacerbate issues such as brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, and tyre perishing, while higher mileage accelerates wear on suspension components, tyres, and drivetrain consumables. The advisories from 2024, particularly the offside tyre edge wear, may also reflect uneven loading or misalignment, which could be exacerbated by prolonged inactivity. For a prospective buyer, this vehicle warrants a thorough inspection to confirm the resolution of the recorded defects and to identify any underlying causes contributing to the recurring issues. Begin with a visual and functional assessment of the brake system: check for uneven brake disc wear, corrosion, or binding calipers, which could explain the near-side rear binding and the advisories from previous tests. Listen for abnormal brake pulsation or shudder during a test drive, which may indicate warped discs or soft pads. Inspect the rear brake system closely, as the binding and pad wear history suggests potential issues with the service brakes, possibly due to misalignment, fluid contamination, or worn brake lines. Verify that the brake fluid level is adequate and that there are no leaks, as low fluid levels or contamination can accelerate pad and disc wear. Additionally, examine the tyres for signs of excessive edge wear or exposed cords, which were flagged in the 2022 MOT. Check the tread depth and look for irregular wear patterns that could indicate alignment or suspension problems. The offside tyre wear advisory from 2024 suggests the vehicle may have been driven unevenly, so a professional alignment check is recommended. Beyond the brakes and tyres, assess the suspension for signs of wear, such as clunking noises from worn suspension bushes or coil springs, which can worsen with age and mileage. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as the collision assist warning present in 2024 may relate to structural integrity or exhaust emissions compliance. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing-related issues, test the vehicle’s starting and charging system, as a weak 12V battery or corroded connections could exacerbate electrical gremlins. Prioritise a brake service and tyre alignment as soon as possible, with the rear brakes being the most critical given the history of binding and wear.