2018 Mercedes-Benz E 3.0L Petrol · M100 AAM

The most recent MOT test conducted on 26 September 2025 resulted in a pass, although it marks a departure from the previous three years of clean records. While the vehicle has historically demonstrated a stable maintenance profile with no defects recorded since 2022, the latest inspection indicates that several key consumables are now reaching the end of their service life. This suggests the vehicle is entering a phase of required maintenance after a period of relative stability. With a recorded mileage of 39,769 miles over approximately eight years, this vehicle has averaged fewer than 5,000 miles per annum. This is significantly lower than the national average for a luxury saloon of this age. While low mileage generally implies reduced wear on the engine, gearbox, and suspension bushings, it can also indicate periods of prolonged inactivity. Such usage patterns often shift the primary mechanical concerns from wear-and-tear to degradation caused by standing, which can affect rubber components and fluid chemistry. Immediate attention is required for the braking system, as both front and rear brake pads were flagged as wearing thin. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for any metallic grinding or squealing and feel for a lack of bite or brake shudder. Furthermore, the advisory regarding the offside rear inner tyre being worn close to the legal limit on the edge is a point of concern. This specific wear pattern often points to incorrect wheel alignment or worn suspension components affecting the camber. A thorough inspection of all four tyres for uneven tread wear is essential to determine if a full four-wheel alignment is necessary. Given the low annual mileage, the buyer must look beyond the MOT history to verify time-based maintenance. It is critical to check the service book for oil and filter changes performed at regular calendar intervals regardless of mileage to prevent internal engine sludge. Physical inspections should focus on the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or hairline cracking due to age. Additionally, the brake discs should be examined for heavy surface corrosion or binding calipers that can occur when a vehicle sits idle. Finally, the health of the 12V battery should be verified, as low-usage cycles often lead to premature battery failure in modern Mercedes-Benz electronics.