2009 Mercedes-Benz B-Class 1.7L Petrol · LT09 HXA

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz B-Class presents a largely stable roadworthiness record punctuated by two specific advisories from earlier in the decade, with the most recent MOT test on 2026-05-18 having passed cleanly with no defects recorded. Between 2019 and 2026 the vehicle has shown consistent compliance, though the 2019 rear brake disc advisory noting both sides as worn, pitted or scored represents the primary mechanical concern requiring verification. The 2018 nearside front tyre advisory indicating wear close to the legal limit adds another layer of scrutiny, as both incidents occurred nearly seven years apart, suggesting intermittent rather than progressive degradation. While the overall test history remains positive, the presence of these advisories signals that certain subsystems have experienced significant material loss or surface damage that should be confirmed before committing to purchase. The vehicle's recorded mileage of 39,061 miles across its 17-year lifespan translates to approximately 2,298 miles per year, a figure considerably lower than typical usage patterns for a modern compact hatchback. This unusually low accumulation rate raises questions about the actual driving profile since the original factory specification would normally expect substantially higher annual mileage, particularly when considering the 2-year intervals between the 2021 and 2023 MOT tests followed by a 7-month gap to the 2026 test. The extended periods without testing could indicate the car being stored or driven very sparingly, yet the low mileage does not necessarily negate the importance of verifying the brake disc condition and tyre integrity, as these systems can deteriorate regardless of how often the vehicle is moved. The absence of acceleration-related or transmission advisories in the recent clean tests suggests the powertrain has remained largely within acceptable parameters, but the historical advisories demand closer examination. The rear brake disc advisory from December 2019 warrants particular attention during a test drive, as even partially scored or pitted discs can compromise braking efficiency and generate audible knocking noises when the driver applies firm pressure. Listen for any metallic scraping or grinding sounds under moderate deceleration, and check whether the brake pedal feels firm and consistent through the entire travel—any spongy or pulsating sensation could indicate air in the system or internal disc damage. Additionally, verify that the brake pads are not excessively worn themselves, as they may have been replaced or compensated for the disc condition, and confirm that the parking brake engages properly without dragging. These checks are essential because while the 2026 pass indicates the system currently meets minimum standards, the underlying disc damage may still affect safety margins until a professional inspection confirms full restoration. The 2018 nearside front tyre advisory showing wear close to the legal limit requires a focused visual and tactile assessment during the test drive, as front tyres bear the majority of lateral loads and their condition reflects the vehicle's handling response. Look for uniform tread depth across the contact patch, paying special attention to any edges that appear rounded or flattened, which would indicate uneven wear or previous impact damage. A proper alignment check should reveal whether the tyres are seated correctly on the rims, and any soft spots or bulges suggest internal casing weakness or embedded debris. Given the low overall mileage, the tyres have likely accumulated minimal wear, but the prior advisory warns that the remaining tread life may be significantly reduced compared to a vehicle with normal usage patterns. If either the rear brake discs or front tyres require replacement or reconditioning, budget accordingly and consider requesting a specialist technical review to ensure both components meet current safety standards before finalising the purchase.