2018 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · MS02 ALM

The Mercedes-Benz E in question has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness trend over the past three annual MOT tests, with no defects recorded in the most recent examination on January 12, 2026, at 122,395 miles. The absence of advisories or failures in the three preceding tests—each conducted within the standard 12-month window—suggests the vehicle has been maintained to a high standard in critical areas such as brakes, suspension, emissions, and structural integrity. The sole historical anomaly, a slightly distorted nearside front road wheel noted in July 2022 at 37,673 miles, appears to have been resolved or compensated for, as no further mention of wheel alignment or distortion has appeared in subsequent tests. This consistency indicates a well-kept example, though the age and mileage still warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection of wear-prone components. The mileage accumulation is notably aggressive for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging around 15,300 miles per annum—a figure far exceeding the UK average for private cars. The most recent MOT in January 2026 shows just 56,143 miles covered since the July 2022 test, a slower pace that may reflect seasonal use or a temporary reduction in mileage. However, the rapid mileage climb between earlier tests—from 37,673 miles in mid-2022 to 49,074 miles by March 2023 (a 11,401-mile increase in under eight months)—demonstrates a history of high usage. Such mileage demands greater scrutiny of consumables like tyres, brake pads, and suspension bushes, as well as potential wear on the drivetrain and exhaust system. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be on the suspension and wheel alignment, given the past distortion advisory. A professional inspection should verify the condition of the nearside front road wheel, hub bearings, and steering geometry to rule out any lingering issues. The high mileage also necessitates checking for wear in the brake system—particularly the discs, calipers, and hydraulic lines—along with the condition of the tyres, which may have been rotated or replaced since the last MOT. While the MOT history is clean, the vehicle’s age and usage profile suggest that underlying wear in less frequently inspected areas, such as the coil springs, ball joints, or exhaust mounts, could develop without immediate visibility. Finally, the absence of corrosion-related advisories in the MOT records is encouraging, but a close examination of the underbody, wheel arches, and sills for surface rust or structural degradation is advisable. Given the Mercedes-Benz E’s reputation for complex electronics, a diagnostic check for stored fault codes—especially in the ABS, airbag, or engine management systems—would provide additional reassurance. The vehicle’s maintenance consistency is strong, but the mileage history justifies a meticulous pre-purchase inspection to confirm its long-term reliability.