2009 Mercedes-Benz E 3.0L Diesel · SC09 AWA

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness status, though the maintenance history indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach. The most recent MOT test in March 2023 at 102,569 miles resulted in a pass, following a failure just three days prior. This sequence suggests the owner addresses safety-critical faults once identified by the tester. However, the record shows no recorded MOT activity for over three years, meaning the vehicle is currently overdue for its test and the current mechanical state of the components cannot be verified without a fresh inspection. The mileage data shows a significant discrepancy in the records. The March 2021 test recorded 154,456 miles, yet the March 2022 test showed only 98,154 miles. This drop of over 56,000 miles in the database suggests an odometer inconsistency or a clerical error during recording. Excluding this anomaly, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,000 miles per year, which is consistent with a 17-year-old Mercedes. Low annual mileage often leads to the degradation of rubber components and seals despite the low total mechanical wear. A buyer must scrutinise the front suspension, as the anti-roll bar ball joints were flagged for wear in 2022 and 2023. The central front oil leak has been a persistent feature since at least 2021, and while deemed not excessive by the tester, its continued presence suggests a weeping seal or gasket cover that may eventually require replacement. Given the history of perishing tyres and exposed cords in 2022 and 2023, the age and condition of all tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking, as low mileage often masks rubber rot before tread depth becomes an issue.