2004 Mercedes E 3.2L Petrol · LV04 BPF

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile, showing a worsening trend in mechanical neglect and deferred maintenance. The most recent test in March 2023 at 105,167 miles resulted in a comprehensive failure involving multiple critical systems, including an inoperative engine management light, failed parking brake efficiency, and poor exhaust emissions. This follows a significant failure in late 2021, indicating that the vehicle is only being addressed when it fails a legal test rather than through a proactive service schedule. The mileage pattern is notably low for a 22-year-old Mercedes, averaging approximately 4,780 miles per year to reach 105,167 miles. However, the data reveals a significant gap in usage; between December 2020 and December 2021, the car covered only 783 miles, and only 1,278 miles were recorded between February 2022 and March 2023. This low-use profile suggests the car may have sat stationary for long periods, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and internal engine seals despite the low odometer reading. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems due to recurring faults. The record consistently flags worn control arm bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers across multiple years, suggesting a systemic failure to replace front-end components. The braking system shows a persistent history of thin pads, corroded brake pipes, and a parking brake that repeatedly fails tests. Special attention should also be paid to the persistent oil leak noted in three consecutive tests and the state of the emissions system, which previously showed high carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon levels, potentially indicating fuel mixture issues or catalytic converter inefficiency.