2010 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · OV60 AAN

The most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 2 December 2025 resulted in a pass, although two advisories were issued concerning the nearside rear and offside rear tyres, both of which were noted as being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge. Reviewing the broader test history reveals a broadly stable maintenance trend, with all four recorded tests over the past four years achieving pass status without any failure items. However, the pattern of advisories does suggest a recurring wear characteristic that warrants attention, as tyre edge wear has now been flagged at three consecutive tests across both front and rear axles, and brake pad wear was previously noted on the offside rear in early 2022. While none of these issues have yet precipitated a failure, the consistency of tyre wear advisories indicates that the vehicle may benefit from a wheel alignment inspection or suspension geometry check, as edge wear is frequently symptomatic of misalignment, worn suspension components, or incorrect inflation pressures over time. With a recorded mileage of 131,529 miles spread across approximately sixteen years of service, this E-Class has averaged around 8,221 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the steady accumulation of mileage points to consistent if moderate use. At this total mileage, one should reasonably expect wear on major mechanical consumables and service items including brake discs and pads, suspension bushes, engine and gearbox mountings, timing chain components on petrol variants, and the various rubber and electrical components that degrade with both time and use. The fact that only brake pads and tyres have been flagged as advisories over this mileage and time frame is a reasonably positive indicator that the vehicle has not been neglected in fundamental areas. Given the recurring nature of the tyre edge wear advisories, a prospective buyer should undertake a careful physical inspection and test drive evaluation. On the test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocking over uneven road surfaces, particularly from the front strut top mounts, control arm bushes, and anti-roll bar linkages, as worn suspension components will frequently produce uneven and accelerated tyre wear patterns. Pay close attention to any steering wander, pulling to one side under braking, or vibration through the steering wheel, all of which could indicate geometry issues, brake disc lateral runout, or worn wheel bearings. Inspect the inner and outer edges of all four tyres for feathering, chamfering, or uneven shoulder wear, and verify that the sidewalls are free from perishing or cracking given the age of the vehicle. Even where the tread depth appears adequate, a sixteen-year-old tyre may have hardened and lost grip, and any tyres fitted before 2020 should be considered for replacement on safety grounds regardless of remaining tread. Beyond the specific advisory items, several age and mileage related checks merit attention prior to purchase. Inspect the condition of the brake discs on all four corners, particularly for any lipping, corrosion pitting, or surface scoring, and verify that the calipers are releasing correctly without binding by ensuring the wheels rotate freely and the vehicle does not pull one way when warm. Check for any evidence of fluid leaks beneath the vehicle or around the engine, gearbox, and differential, and confirm the service history documentation includes recent replacement of the engine oil and filter, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid at the appropriate intervals. The 12V battery should be load tested, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are sensitive to voltage fluctuations which can manifest as electrical gremlins and component failures. Finally, examine the underside and wheel arch areas for any structural corrosion, particularly around the jacking points, subframe mountings, and suspension turrets, as corrosion is a common failure point on E-Class models approaching or exceeding sixteen years of age and is far more critical than routine advisories for long term roadworthiness.