2010 Mercedes-Benz B-Class 1.5L Petrol · NY10 EAE

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class in question demonstrates a stable roadworthiness trend over the past three MOT cycles, with all recent tests—including the most recent on 2025-06-12—passing without any recorded defects. The lack of advisories or failings in the last three tests suggests the vehicle has not experienced recurring mechanical issues that would warrant concern. However, the single failure in July 2023, despite passing the subsequent test just one day later, is unusual and warrants closer scrutiny, particularly if the failure was related to a minor but recurring issue such as tyre pressure or lighting. The recorded mileage of 88,819 miles over 16 years—approximately 5,551 miles annually—indicates unusually light usage for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests (1,661 miles in five months) and the subsequent 180-mile increase before failure in July 2023 suggests periods of inactivity rather than consistent driving. This low mileage could imply long-term storage, which may have contributed to issues like seized components or degraded fluids if maintenance was neglected during these intervals. Given the absence of recorded defects, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to prolonged inactivity or wear despite low mileage. The suspension—particularly coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for stiffness, uneven wear, or corrosion, as these can develop even with minimal movement. Brake discs and calipers should be checked for uneven wear or binding, especially if the 2023 failure involved braking systems, though no such indication appears in the record. Structural integrity, including underbody corrosion around the sills, wheel arches, and exhaust mounts, must also be assessed, as rust can compromise safety without always being visible externally. Finally, fluid levels and condition—brake fluid, power steering, and engine oil—should be verified, as prolonged storage can lead to contamination or degradation.