2018 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · SH60 LES

The most recent DVSA test on 26 March 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive indicator of the vehicle's current roadworthy state. Looking back over the available history, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, with passes achieved consecutively since 2023 and only isolated advisories surfacing in earlier years. It is worth noting, however, that the 2025 test did flag a slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and deterioration of the rear prop shaft flexible coupling, neither of which was carried forward as a defect in 2026, suggesting these items were monitored or attended to by the previous keeper. The pattern overall is consistent with a vehicle that has been maintained to a serviceable standard, although buyers should not interpret the absence of recorded advisories as proof that no remedial work is required. With a recorded odometer reading of 121,888 miles over approximately 8 years, this E-Class is averaging around 15,236 miles per year, which is notably above the national average for a vehicle of this age. Higher annual mileage of this nature typically accelerates wear on consumable components such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, and places additional load on the drivetrain, including the automatic transmission and engine ancillaries. There is no significant mileage gap evident in the recorded MOT history, indicating the car has been in continuous use rather than left standing for long periods, which is generally favourable for mechanical seals, brake components, and tyre condition, but does mean that items with finite service life have likely been replaced or renewed multiple times during its life. Given the mileage and the 2025 advisories, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension geometry and condition. The slight play previously identified in the nearside front lower arm ball joint is a wear item that progresses over time, and on a test drive one should listen for clonks or knocking from the front end over speed humps, uneven catseye roads, or during full lock manoeuvres, while also checking for uneven tyre wear, particularly inner shoulder wear, which can indicate worn bushes or ball joints. The rear prop shaft flexible coupling deterioration should also be inspected; listen during the test drive for any vibration, droning, or knocking from beneath the vehicle, particularly under load or at steady motorway speeds, and have the coupling physically examined for cracks or excessive flex. Brake feel should be assessed for any pulling, grinding, or shuddering, given the previous advisory on rear brake pad wear and the inevitably high mileage on the original or replacement discs. Beyond the advisory history, given the vehicle's age and high accumulated mileage, several age-related items warrant physical verification prior to purchase. Tyres should be examined closely for both tread depth and any signs of sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age rather than wear, and the spare or inflation kit should be checked for condition. The 12-volt battery, which typically has a service life of four to six years, may be approaching or past the end of its useful life and should be load tested. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid degrade by calendar age as well as mileage, so it is sensible to verify the service history and request evidence of recent fluid changes. On a standing vehicle, check for binding brake calipers by ensuring the car rolls freely when released and look for signs of corrosion on brake discs, particularly if the car has seen periods of low use, while the underside should be inspected for any fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, or power steering system that may not have been flagged at MOT.