2019 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · OY69 NBA

The most recent MOT test conducted in September 2025 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. However, a review of the preceding two years reveals a concerning trend regarding the vehicle's suspension integrity. There has been a recurring pattern of wear involving the lower suspension arm ball joints on both the nearside and offside fronts. The vehicle has progressed from minor advisories for slight play in 2023 to major failures for excessive wear in 2024 and 2025. While the latest pass suggests that the immediate mechanical failures have been rectified, the history indicates that the suspension components are a known area of wear progression for this specific vehicle. With 75,896 miles recorded over approximately seven years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 10,842 miles per annum. This usage profile is considered typical for a premium executive vehicle and suggests a balanced mix of motorway and urban driving. The mileage is not excessively high, which is positive for the long-term health of the engine and transmission, but it is high enough that consumables such as suspension bushes, ball joints, and braking components are expected to be reaching the end of their optimal service life. The consistency of the mileage suggests the car has not been subject to long periods of inactivity, which helps mitigate risks associated with standing corrosion or fluid degradation. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay close attention to the steering and front suspension. Given the history of ball joint failures, listen intently for any knocking, clunking, or metallic creaking sounds when navigating speed bumps or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any sensation of steering wander or a lack of precision in the steering response could indicate that the recent repairs have not fully addressed the issue or that other components, such as tie rod ends or control arm bushes, are now failing. You should also inspect the rubber dust boots on the ball joints for any signs of tearing or grease leakage, which would indicate imminent failure. Furthermore, the 2024 MOT history highlighted issues with tyre condition, specifically sidewall cracking and perishing on the nearside rear and a cut on the offside rear. Although these were not noted in the 2025 test, you must conduct a thorough physical inspection of all four tyres. Look for any signs of age-related perishing, such as fine cracks in the sidewalls, and check for any cuts or bulges that could compromise structural integrity. Additionally, check the tyre tread for uneven wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, as this can be a direct symptom of the suspension geometry issues previously identified. Finally, confirm that the service history supports the recent suspension repairs to ensure the work was carried out to a professional standard.