2004 Mercedes-Benz E 5.4L Petrol · SA04 FBY

A pattern of recurring advisories on tyres, brake pipework, and suspension components underpins the mechanical profile of this 2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with two dangerous tyre failures across the recorded MOT period indicating that tyre condition has been allowed to deteriorate to an unsafe level on more than one occasion. The most recent test on 6 May 2026 was passed with no defects recorded, but the broader trajectory is less reassuring. The 2024 test alone combined a near-side front tyre with exposed ply or cords, off-side front brake pipe corrosion, and an off-side front inner tyre worn close to the legal limit, while the 2022 test saw an off-side rear tyre fail dangerously alongside worn front tyres on both sides. The cumulative effect is a record that points to chronic issues with tyre replacement discipline, corrosion forming on the off-side front brake line, and developing wear in the front suspension geometry. Mileage stands at 89,400 over approximately 22 years of life, equating to around 4,064 miles per year, which is substantially below average for a vehicle of this vintage. The MOT history covers the period from 2021 to 2026 with broadly consistent annual testing and mileage accumulation implied between tests, although precise odometer readings are not provided for cross-referencing. This low annual mileage suggests the vehicle has likely seen light use rather than long-term storage, given that tests have continued year on year. Mechanically, lower mileage typically reduces wear on internal combustion components and the clutch, but the advisories recorded still indicate that consumable items such as tyres, brake lines, and suspension joints have degraded despite limited mileage, which can occur when a vehicle covers predominantly short journeys or stands for extended periods between uses. A prospective buyer should focus inspection efforts on the specific components flagged in the MOT record. The off-side front brake pipe was noted as corroded in 2024 and should be examined carefully along its full length, paying particular attention to the unions at the master cylinder, ABS modulator, and front flexible hose for signs of surface corrosion, pitting, or any weeping of brake fluid. The brake pedal should feel firm with no sponginess or excessive travel, and the car should pull up squarely under firm pedal pressure without pulling to one side. Suspension wear is indicated by the 2021 advisory on the near-side front lower suspension arm ball joint showing slight play, and a close watch should be kept for any knocking or clonking from the front end when traversing speed bumps or rough tarmac, vague or imprecise steering response, uneven tyre wear across the front axle, and any clunking from the front subframe area. Tyre condition warrants particular attention given the two dangerous failures: all four tyres should be examined for age-related sidewall cracking, tread depth well above the legal 1.6mm minimum, and even wear across the full width, as the history suggests replacements may have been deferred until the last responsible moment. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough test drive should include an assessment of any warning lights on the instrument cluster, particularly the ABS and brake warning indicators, given the brake pipe corrosion already recorded. The underside should be inspected with the vehicle raised if possible, checking the front subframe mounting points, anti-roll bar drop links, and lower control arm bushes for corrosion or perishing, as these are common failure points on W211-era E-Class vehicles. The engine should be started from cold, listening for timing chain rattle on initial startup which is a known concern for this generation, and any smoke from the exhaust should be noted on cold start and under load. Given the vehicle's age and the fact that the covers fitted under the body and over the outer sills have obscured inspection during previous tests, it would be prudent to insist on the undertrays being removed for a complete visual inspection prior to purchase, as corrosion and component wear hidden beneath these covers cannot be ruled out from the MOT record alone.