2017 Mercedes-Benz Vito 2.1L Diesel · LM67 FSG

The latest MOT test on 2026-06-02 resulted in a passing grade, though it revealed persistent advisories that suggest ongoing wear issues requiring attention. The vehicle’s MOT history displays a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning tyre wear close to legal limits, near-side rear brake pad thinning, and near-side front lower suspension arm ball joint play—indicating that maintenance may have been deferred or that the vehicle has been subjected to heavy or uneven usage. The failure in 2024-12-03, which included an engine malfunction indicator light (MIL) and the same advisories, underscores a concerning trend where critical components are nearing or exceeding their operational thresholds. While the vehicle passed subsequent tests, the persistence of these advisories suggests that the owner has either been reactive rather than proactive in addressing wear, or the vehicle has been driven in conditions that accelerate component degradation. The recorded mileage of 239,244 miles for a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Vito represents an exceptionally high annual mileage of approximately 26,583 miles, which is far above the average for vehicles of this age and model. Such usage levels typically indicate either intensive operational demands—such as commercial or high-mileage private use—or prolonged periods of inactivity followed by rapid mileage accumulation. High mileage accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as drivetrain elements, while also contributing to fluid degradation and potential stress on structural integrity. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT records suggests that the vehicle has not been left stationary for extended periods, which could otherwise exacerbate issues like brake disc corrosion, standing corrosion in suspension or exhaust systems, or fluid degradation from stagnation. For a prospective buyer, this vehicle warrants a meticulous inspection focused on the recurring advisories and high-mileage wear patterns. Begin with a thorough examination of the tyres, particularly the offside front and near-side rear, where wear is documented close to legal limits. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, such as edge wear or cupping, which may indicate misalignment, poor suspension alignment, or excessive steering angle use. On a test drive, listen for suspension clunks or rattles from the near-side front lower suspension arm, which could reveal ball joint wear or damaged suspension bushes. The near-side rear brake pads being thin warrant immediate attention; inspect for glazing, scoring, or uneven pad thickness, and check for brake disc warping or corrosion that could indicate binding calipers or hydraulic issues. Listen for grinding noises when applying brakes, which could signal pad-to-disc contact or warped discs. Additionally, the engine MIL failure from the 2024 MOT suggests an unresolved issue that should be addressed by a qualified technician. The vehicle’s high mileage also necessitates a check of the 12V battery, as prolonged use can lead to dehydration or internal failure, particularly if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery holds a charge when static. Fluid checks are critical; given the age and mileage, verify the condition of the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even without active use. Finally, examine the exhaust system for leaks or structural integrity, as high-mileage vehicles are more prone to exhaust manifold or catalytic converter issues. Check for excessive backpressure or unusual noises during acceleration, which may indicate exhaust system failures. Lastly, verify the service history, particularly for suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components, to confirm that maintenance was performed at recommended intervals.