2004 Mercedes-Benz E 3.2L Diesel · RG04 CTF

The most recent MOT test on 2025-01-09 resulted in a pass, though it did reveal persistent advisories that warrant careful attention. The vehicle’s maintenance history over the past two years shows a mixed but generally stable trend, with two failures in 2021 and 2024 primarily due to tyre cord exposure and headlamp defects, followed by a series of advisories in 2023 and 2022 concerning brake pipe corrosion, suspension arm wear, and brake binding. While the 2025 test did not flag any major failures, the recurring advisories—particularly around the rear brake hose corrosion and oil leaks—suggest ongoing wear that could escalate if not addressed promptly. The absence of recent dangerous failures indicates the vehicle remains roadworthy, but the advisories indicate areas where further inspection or maintenance is prudent to prevent potential issues from worsening. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 168,463 miles over approximately 22 years represents an average of around 7,657 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and usage profile. Lower mileage could imply periods of less frequent use, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion in brake pipes or fluid degradation in hydraulic systems, while higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres. Given the mileage, the vehicle has likely undergone significant stress on its drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems, which is why the MOT history reflects wear-related advisories rather than outright failures. The absence of recent high-mileage spikes suggests no sudden, aggressive usage pattern, but the wear progression seen in the advisories underscores the need for proactive maintenance to mitigate further deterioration. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the buyer should focus on the recurring advisories present in the MOT history. First, visually inspect the rear brake hoses for any signs of cracking or detachment from their ferrules, as corrosion can lead to failure and brake fluid loss. During a test drive, listen for a soft, pulsating brake pedal that may indicate brake hose failure or binding, and check for uneven brake disc wear or shuddering, which could signal warping or binding calipers. Next, examine the front suspension arms for excessive movement or clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may reveal worn bushes or pins. The steering linkage ball joints should be checked for play or excessive noise, particularly when turning sharply, as insecure dust covers can allow dirt ingress and accelerated joint wear. Additionally, verify the brake pipes for corrosion and grease buildup, as this can compromise hydraulic fluid flow and lead to brake inefficiency. For fluid and component checks, the buyer should prioritise the brake system, given the repeated advisories on brake pipe corrosion and binding. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, which can cause uneven wear or reduced braking efficiency. Check the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or fluid degradation, as this can occur over time even with regular servicing. The oil leak advisories suggest potential issues with the engine oil pan gasket or valve cover gasket, which should be inspected for signs of oil pooling under the vehicle or around the engine bay. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as standing vehicles can suffer from sulphation or weak terminals. Finally, the tyres, though not failing the MOT due to cord exposure, should be closely examined for sidewall perishing, which can occur from age even with moderate mileage, and ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth. A thorough inspection of the exhaust system is also recommended, as the 2024 failure highlighted potential emissions-related issues that may require further investigation to ensure compliance with current regulations.