2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 3.5L Diesel · LS59 SSJ

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML was conducted on 29 September 2022, at which the vehicle achieved a Pass classification, although the examining tester recorded two advisory items and one minor defect. The minor defect relates to a nearside rear reflector being defective or damaged by up to fifty percent of the reflecting surface, which is a comparatively trivial visibility-related issue, while the advisories concern a slightly damaged nearside front tyre and deterioration of the rear registration plate. Looking at the broader MOT history, the maintenance trend has been broadly stable, with the vehicle passing the majority of annual tests, though there have been isolated issues of mechanical significance. Of particular concern is the May 2018 test, where a dangerous failure was recorded for a broken offside rear coil spring accompanied by an advisory for corrosion of that spring, along with a failure advisory for a nearside front tyre worn down to the legal limit on its inner shoulder. The advisories on rear direction indicator discolouration from 2019 and the recurring registration plate deterioration are minor in nature, and the 2017 tyre cut failure was a one-off consumable issue. With 122,153 miles recorded over approximately seventeen years of service, this ML has covered an average of roughly 7,185 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the normal usage bracket for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no significant anomalies in the recorded mileage progression that would suggest either prolonged periods of standing or unusually high accumulation, both of which carry their own distinct mechanical risks. The consistent year-on-year testing history further indicates that the vehicle has been in regular use, which generally supports healthier operation of seals, gaskets, brake components and the drivetrain, though it does mean that standard wear items such as suspension bushes, brake discs and drivetrain mounts will have accrued commensurate fatigue. Given the documented history of a broken rear coil spring, particular attention must be paid to the suspension system during any pre-purchase inspection. The rear coil springs on this model are known to be susceptible to corrosion-induced failure, particularly in climates where road salt is used, and the 2018 advisory for corrosion of the offside rear coil spring suggests that the nearside spring may also be in an advanced state of degradation. During a test drive, listen carefully for any clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when traversing undulating surfaces or speed bumps, and inspect for any uneven ride height at the rear. The front tyres have also featured in advisory records on two occasions, including inner shoulder wear, which can be indicative of suspension geometry misalignment, worn wishbone bushes, or failing top mount bearings. A four-wheel alignment check and close inspection of the front suspension components, including control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links and steering tie rods, would be prudent. Beyond the documented defects, the age and mileage of this seventeen-year-old Mercedes-Benz ML warrant a comprehensive inspection of items that deteriorate with calendar age regardless of mileage covered. Brake discs may exhibit significant corrosion or lipping from standing periods or seasonal use, and calipers can seize on older vehicles, leading to uneven pad wear and pulling under braking; a thorough check of disc runout and caliper sliding pin operation is advisable. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are sensitive to voltage fluctuations that can trigger electrical faults. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, which can occur even on relatively unused tyres after several years. Service history verification is essential, with particular confirmation of recent changes to engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and the diesel particulate filter regeneration status, as calendar-based fluid degradation can compromise braking performance, cooling efficiency and automatic transmission reliability. Finally, given the corrosion advisory on the suspension, a close visual examination of the underbody, subframe mounting points and brake lines for any surface or structural corrosion would be a wise precaution before purchase.