2004 Mercedes A-Class 1.4L Petrol · LS04 AON

The vehicle remains currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend shows a slight shift toward mechanical wear. The most recent test conducted on 21 May 2026 at 125,210 miles identified play in the offside front inner tie rod. While the vehicle passed despite this defect, the presence of play indicates that steering components are beginning to degrade, following a period of clean records in both the 2023 and 2024 tests. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-useage vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 5,700 miles per year. Between July 2022 and May 2026, the car covered 14,060 miles, representing a steady but modest usage rate rather than high-intensity driving. This low annual mileage suggests that the drivetrain and engine components have not faced excessive stress, though the 22-year age of the Mercedes still increases the risk of age-related failure in rubber-based components and dry rot of fluid lines regardless of the odometer reading. A physical inspection must focus on the steering geometry and suspension integrity given the recently flagged tie rod issue. The buyer should check all front suspension bushes, wish arms, and ball joints for signs of tearing or excessive movement. Additionally, surface rust noted during the July 2022 test at 111,150 miles requires a close look under the chassis. This is necessary to ensure that the surface corrosion has not progressed into structural perforation, particularly on the mounting points or sills, which are common long-term concerns for vehicles of this era.