2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 3.0L Diesel · OU62 YVF

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML currently presents a stable mechanical condition following its most recent MOT on 15 April 2026 at 118,906 miles, though the maintenance trend shows a recent resolution of serious suspension defects accompanied by minor wear advisories. The vehicle passed its latest test after addressing critical faults that caused a failure just days prior in April 2025. At the 2026 test, the tester flagged a severely deteriorated nearside front outer constant velocity boot and rear brake pads wearing thin, both typical consumable wear items for a vehicle of this age. The underlying suspension issues that led to the April 2025 failure appear to have been rectified, allowing the subsequent 2026 test to pass. Accumulating 118,906 miles over fourteen years equates to roughly 8,493 miles annually, a typical usage pattern that suggests consistent rather than light use. The mileage progression reveals steady accumulation, jumping from 79,108 miles in April 2023 to 103,546 miles by April 2025, before remaining identical at 118,906 miles for both the April 2025 and April 2026 tests. This exact mileage recorded twelve months apart indicates the vehicle has remained stationary since its last test in April 2026. A prolonged standing period raises the likelihood of deteriorated rubber components, such as the flagged CV boot, and potential brake surface corrosion. A prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the rear suspension and drivetrain components before purchase. The April 2025 failure revealed fractured nearside and offside rear coil springs, a severe structural risk that likely required replacement to pass the 2026 test. Verifying the quality of this repair is essential, as improper installation or the use of substandard parts could compromise the vehicle's structural integrity. The tester flagged slight play in the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint in April 2025, a defect that warrants physical inspection to confirm whether it was replaced or simply passed with minimal play in 2026. The severely deteriorated nearside front outer CV boot flagged in 2026 demands immediate attention if not already repaired, as a split boot leads to grease loss and joint failure. The rear brake pads wearing thin represent routine consumable wear, but a hands-on inspection of the brake discs and calipers is necessary given the vehicle's recent period of standing. Checking for structural corrosion around the rear subframe and spring mounts is highly recommended, given the history of fractured coil springs.