2011 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · LS61 KHZ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-02 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy, though the record reveals an inconsistent maintenance pattern rather than a stable or improving trend. The January 2026 pass at 236,954 miles follows a bizarre duplication of the January 2023 test—one pass and one fail at identical mileage—before a gap of nearly two years with no further testing. The absence of defects in the last two tests suggests the vehicle was either repaired between 2023 and 2024 or the failure in 2023 was not mechanically critical. However, the lack of intermediate tests between 2024 and 2026 raises questions about whether the vehicle was driven at all during this period. The mileage progression is erratic and suggests either irregular use or deliberate resetting. The recorded mileage jumps from 224,314 in January 2023 to 227,748 in January 2024—a gain of just 3,434 miles over 12 months—before spiking to 373,637 by January 2025, an increase of 145,889 miles in under a year. This pattern is unsustainable for a vehicle of this age and implies either odometer fraud or a period of heavy use followed by prolonged inactivity. The subsequent drop to 236,954 miles by January 2026 suggests the odometer was reset or the vehicle was not driven for an extended period, which could mask significant wear. Given the irregular testing and mileage anomalies, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that are not always visible in a basic MOT. The suspension—particularly the rear coil springs and bushes—should be checked for uneven sagging or excessive play, as high mileage and uneven usage often accelerate degradation. The braking system warrants close examination, including rear brake binding (a common issue in older Mercedes) and rear disc wear, as the 2023 failure suggests past brake-related concerns. Structural integrity is also critical; inspect the subframe, sills, and wheel arches for corrosion, especially if the vehicle was stored unsheltered during periods of inactivity. Finally, verify the exhaust system for leaks or damage, as emissions failures are often linked to catalytic converter or sensor issues in this model.