2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 2.9L Diesel · NSX 4

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-19 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive shift in the vehicle’s roadworthiness status following a failed inspection in early 2024. While the 2025 test also passed, it included advisories regarding tyre wear close to legal limits, indicating a pattern of gradual but concerning tyre degradation over the preceding two years. The failure in January 2024 highlighted a more severe issue with the near-side front tyre’s tread depth dropping below the mandatory 1.6mm, which is a critical safety concern and must be addressed promptly. The fact that the vehicle has since passed both subsequent MOTs suggests either corrective action was taken or the wear rate has slowed, but the history does not reflect a stable or improving maintenance trend—particularly concerning for tyres, which are a primary failure point in this case. The recorded mileage of 40,089 miles for a 2021 GLE represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,018 miles, which aligns with typical expectations for a vehicle of this age and class. This figure does not suggest excessive wear beyond what one might expect from regular, moderate use, though the presence of two advisories on tyres worn close to legal limits in two separate MOTs could imply either inconsistent tyre rotation or uneven wear patterns. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active service, though the lack of service records or detailed maintenance history means wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids may not be fully accounted for. The most critical implication here is the need to monitor tyre performance closely, as the wear advisories suggest potential alignment or tread management issues that could worsen with continued use. Given the recent MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the near-side front tyre, which was previously the most critical failure point. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as squealing or uneven braking, which could indicate misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or binding calipers. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the outer edges of the offside front and rear tyres, which may suggest camber or toe issues. Additionally, visually inspect the tyres for signs of dry rot or sidewall cracking, as the vehicle’s age and mileage make this a potential concern. If the tyres have been recently replaced, verify that the tread depth has been restored to at least 3mm and that the installation was done correctly to prevent air bubbles or improper fitting. Beyond tyres, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems for signs of wear or damage. Pay particular attention to the front suspension, where the advisories suggest potential issues with tyre alignment or mounting. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn coil springs, broken suspension arms, or damaged control arms. Check for uneven ride height or excessive play in the steering wheel, which may signal binding calipers or warped brake discs. For the braking system, test the pedal feel for firmness and consistency, and listen for grinding or squealing when applying brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or fluid leaks in the hydraulic system. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, inspect the brake discs and calipers for signs of corrosion or binding, as standing can exacerbate these issues. Finally, ensure that all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on mechanical components. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, a comprehensive service check—including a battery health assessment, tyre rotation, and a visual inspection of the exhaust system for emissions compliance—should be undertaken within the next 12 months.