2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L Diesel · LT68 AWA

A modest pattern of wear emerges, with the 2025‑11‑18 MOT noting a minor oil leak and wear on the nearside rear anti‑roll bar linkage pin or bush, while the four preceding tests from 2021 to 2024 recorded no defects and all passed. The presence of only advisory items and the absence of outright failures suggest the vehicle has remained within legal limits but is beginning to show the early signs of component fatigue typical of a commercial van with substantial mileage. At 130,023 miles the Sprinter averages roughly 16,250 miles per year, a usage level that exceeds the typical private‑owner average and points to a work‑horse duty cycle. Such annual accumulation accelerates wear on engine oil seals, transmission components, suspension bushings, brake pads and discs, and tyre tread. The MOT history shows no testing gaps, indicating the vehicle has been regularly inspected, but the mileage alone flags the need for closer scrutiny of wear‑prone items that may not yet have manifested as MOT‑recorded defects. Prospective buyers should verify the source of the oil leak noted in 2025, looking for drips around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing, or rear main seal, and confirm that oil levels remain within specification after a short drive. On the road, listen for any low‑frequency clunking over bumps and feel for excessive body roll or a loose sensation at the rear corner, which would corroborate the anti‑roll bar linkage pin/bush wear. A visual inspection of the rear suspension bushings for cracks, deformation or excessive play, and a test of the steering response for any pull, will help gauge the severity of the advisory. Given the vehicle’s high mileage and the two advisories, budgeting for a thorough suspension inspection and likely replacement of the rear anti‑roll bar bush, as well as addressing the oil leak, is prudent. A comprehensive test drive that includes steady‑state cruising, hard braking, and cornering at moderate speed will reveal any hidden issues with the brakes, drivetrain or chassis. Ensuring that all fluid levels are correct and that there are no fresh leaks before finalising the purchase will provide a clearer picture of the Sprinter’s remaining roadworthiness.