2009 Mercedes-Benz E 3.0L Diesel · LS59 OTH

The most recent MOT on 28 May 2026 was a pass, albeit with advisories noting corrosion on both rear brake pipes. Earlier in the programme the vehicle failed a MOT in May 2024 due to a fractured nearside front coil spring and a severely deteriorated off‑side anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust cover, but those major items were apparently remedied as subsequent tests have been clean of failures. Overall the maintenance trend appears to have stabilised; the only recurring issue is the brake‑pipe corrosion, which has been flagged in three consecutive years, suggesting a persistent exposure to moisture or road‑salt that has not yet been fully addressed. With 129,067 mi recorded on a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7,600 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. The figure does not indicate any periods of extreme high mileage that would accelerate wear on major drivetrain components, but it also suggests the car has not been idle for long stretches, meaning that age‑related degradation of rubber and metal components is likely to be progressing at a typical calendar rate rather than being driven by excessive wear. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear brake‑pipe condition. Inspect both rear pipe sections for surface rust, pitting, or any signs of leaking brake fluid; a corroded pipe can eventually develop a leak that leads to a spongy pedal, reduced braking efficiency or, in the worst case, a loss of hydraulic pressure. During a test drive feel for any softening or pulsation in the brake pedal, listen for air‑hissing sounds, and verify that the vehicle pulls straight under braking. It would be prudent to obtain a quotation for pipe replacement and a full brake‑fluid flush, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can exacerbate corrosion. Also check the front suspension where the coil spring failure occurred; ensure there is no sag, uneven ride height, or clunking over bumps, and verify that the anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust cover has been replaced or is in good condition, as a deteriorated cover can allow dirt ingress leading to premature joint wear. Given the car’s seventeen‑year age, independent of the MOT record, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is essential. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread wear that may have begun since the 2019 advisory about the off‑side rear tyre; tread depth should be above 1.6 mm across the tread face. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and consider a load test, as batteries lose capacity after about five years regardless of mileage. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within their recommended service intervals (typically every two years for brake fluid and coolant). Look under the chassis for rust on suspension mounting points, exhaust hangers and the under‑tray, especially in the rear where the brake‑pipe corrosion has been noted. Finally, if a service book is available, confirm that scheduled services have been logged and that any major components such as the timing chain, water pump or suspension bushes have been replaced in line with the manufacturer’s mileage recommendations.