2012 Mercedes-Benz Vito 2.1L Diesel · RJ62 ACF

The vehicle shows a pattern of recurring suspension and braking issues, culminating in a failure on 23 July 2026. Specifically, the front anti-roll bar pin or bush has progressed from an advisory in 2025 to a major failure in 2026. Previous failures include a fractured nearside rear coil spring in 2024 and insufficient parking brake efficiency in 2022. This trajectory indicates a trend of wear-and-tear failures across the chassis and braking systems rather than a consistent record of roadworthiness. With 124,665 miles recorded over 14 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 8,905 miles per year. This usage rate is typical for a vehicle of this age and type. Mechanically, this level of accumulation suggests that components such as suspension bushings, brake discs, and drivetrain mounts are reaching the end of their expected service life, which aligns with the specific failures recorded in the MOT history. Attention must be paid to the front suspension and steering geometry. The recurring issues with the anti-roll bar bushes and the previous coil spring failure suggest a need for a thorough inspection of all suspension linkages. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as this often indicates worn anti-roll bar components. The recorded wear on both front tyres suggests potential alignment issues or uneven wear patterns that should be visually verified. The braking system also requires scrutiny due to the 2022 failure regarding parking brake efficiency and the advisory for a binding offside front service brake. On a test drive, feel for any steering pull or judder during braking, and check if the vehicle rolls freely when the handbrake is released. Ensure the parking brake holds the vehicle securely on an incline. Additionally, verify that the windscreen washer system is fully operational, as this was a primary cause of the most recent failure.