2017 Mercedes-Benz Vito 1.6L Diesel · LM67 FVL

The most recent MOT on 6 November 2023 was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding three years show a clear improvement from the earlier failures. In 2020 the vehicle was rejected for ineffective front and central windscreen wipers and dangerously thin rear brake pads, while a 2022 failure related only to a near‑side headlamp aim being low. Since those issues were rectified, the 2021, 2022 and 2023 tests have all been clean, indicating that the current maintenance regime is stable and that the principal concerns identified previously have been addressed. At 94,682 miles for a 2017 model the average annual distance is roughly 10,500 miles, which sits comfortably within normal private‑use figures for a light commercial van. There are no obvious mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity evident from the MOT records, suggesting the vehicle has been used consistently rather than being stored for extended intervals. This level of use will have contributed to normal wear of consumables such as brake discs, tyres and suspension components, but does not imply excessive strain on the engine or drivetrain. When inspecting the vehicle, verify that the near‑side headlamp is correctly aimed and that the beam is symmetrical with the off‑side unit; a mis‑aimed lamp can cause reduced night‑time visibility and may re‑appear if the mounting bolts have loosened. Test both windscreen wipers at low and high speed to ensure full sweep coverage and adequate blade pressure – any streaking or failure to clear the glass could indicate worn blades, a weak motor or a faulty linkage that may re‑emerge under heavy rain. Examine the rear brake pads for remaining thickness, ideally above 3 mm, and feel for any pulsation, shudder or increased pedal travel during a short road test, which would point to worn pads, glazed discs or a potentially sticking rear caliper that may need re‑inspection. Given the vehicle’s age, also conduct a thorough visual check of the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could signal alignment issues or ageing rubber, and confirm that the tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6 mm. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the battery’s cranking performance, as a nine‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Look for any signs of corrosion on suspension bushes, ball joints and under‑body panels, especially around the rear axle where standing water can accelerate rust. Finally, ensure that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals; fluid colour and level should be clear and at the correct mark, as time‑related degradation can lead to reduced lubrication and component wear even if mileage is moderate.