2013 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · OU13 LSF

The most recent MOT inspection on 20 October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the record reveals a concerning downward trend in the vehicle's mechanical condition. While the car has successfully passed its tests, the transition from a clean record in 2022 to a series of increasing advisories and major failures in recent years suggests a period of accelerating wear and deferred maintenance. The presence of multiple advisories regarding braking systems, wheel bearings, and oil leaks indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where significant component replacement will be necessary to maintain roadworthiness and safety. With 170,948 miles recorded over approximately 13 years, this Mercedes-Benz E-Class has averaged roughly 13,150 miles per year. This is a relatively high level of usage for a vehicle of this age, which aligns with the observed wear on consumable components such as tyres, brake discs, and suspension elements. High mileage at this stage of a vehicle's life typically means that major drivetrain and chassis components have been subjected to significant stress. You should expect that wear on items like suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and engine seals will be more advanced than on a lower-mileage equivalent, necessitating a more rigorous mechanical inspection. A primary area of concern is the braking system and associated hydraulic lines. The recent advisories regarding corroded brake pipes on both the nearside and offside front, combined with a previous major failure for excessive corrosion on rear brake pipes, suggest a systemic issue with the integrity of the braking fluid lines. During your test drive, listen for any changes in pedal feel or a spongy sensation, which could indicate air ingress or fluid degradation. Furthermore, the advisory for worn front brake discs means you should check for any rhythmic pulsation through the brake pedal or steering wheel when decelerating, which would indicate disc warping or uneven thickness. The mechanical inspection should also address the reported oil leak and the nearside front wheel bearing play. An oil leak, even if described as not excessive, can lead to larger failures if it affects timing covers, gaskets, or if it contaminates other components. Check the engine bay and undercarriage for fresh seepage and look for signs of burnt oil smells during operation. Regarding the wheel bearing, listen closely for a low-frequency humming or grinding noise that increases in pitch as vehicle speed rises, particularly when turning. The slight play in the bearing can quickly progress to a failure that causes significant vibration or even wheel instability. Finally, given the history of uneven tyre wear, inspect the suspension geometry and check for any excessive play in the anti-roll bar linkages or control arm bushes.