2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 314 Progressive CDI 2.1L Diesel · ST07 COG

The latest MOT test for this Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 314 Progressive CDI occurred on 2026-02-13 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the previous year’s failures. While the 2025 test also recorded advisories, the 2026 result shows a significant improvement in roadworthiness, with no defects noted and only minor windscreen wiper issues—both of which are easily rectifiable and unlikely to recur if promptly addressed. The absence of repeated major failures since 2024 suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance history is now stabilising, though the brake and tyre advisories from 2025 indicate ongoing wear that requires attention before it escalates into a failure. The progression from a failed MOT in 2025 to a passed one in 2026 reflects a positive trend, but the buyer should remain vigilant about the persistent brake and tyre wear patterns to prevent future compliance issues. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 56,727 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,345 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a Sprinter of this age. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally light nor excessively heavy for a five-year-old vehicle, but it does not rule out the possibility of prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues such as brake binding, suspension stiffness, or fluid degradation. For instance, standing brakes may lead to corrosion on brake discs or caliper binding, particularly if the vehicle was left unused for extended periods. Additionally, the wear advisories on brake pads and tyres suggest that the driver has been maintaining a steady pace of use, which is generally favourable, but the buyer should confirm whether the vehicle has been subjected to heavy loads or harsh driving conditions that could accelerate wear beyond typical expectations. Given the recent MOT history and the vehicle’s mileage profile, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, as the offside rear brake pads were found to be dangerously thin in 2025 and the near- and offside front pads were wearing thin. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or pulsating feel, or excessive noise from the rear axle, which may indicate warped discs, binding calipers, or remaining pad material. If the brakes are binding, the calipers may require cleaning or adjustment, while excessive noise could signal disc warping or pad contamination. The buyer should also verify that the brake fluid level is correct and check for leaks around the master cylinder or caliper seals. Additionally, the offside front tyre wear pattern suggests either underinflation, misalignment, or excessive camber, so inspect the wheel alignment and tyre pressure, and look for signs of uneven tread wear or sidewall damage that could indicate structural issues or improper suspension geometry. For the tyres, which were noted as worn close to the legal limit in 2025, the buyer should replace them immediately to avoid compromising traction, especially given the Sprinter’s heavy payload capacity. Check the tread depth with a 25p coin—if the coin does not show the outer band, the tyres are illegal and unsafe. Beyond tyres, inspect the vehicle for signs of tyre perishing or cracking in the sidewalls, which can occur over time even with moderate mileage, particularly in colder climates. The suspension should be checked for excessive play or clunking noises, which may indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. Listen for clunks during cornering or over bumps, and inspect the suspension for oil leaks or rust around the strut mounts. Finally, since the vehicle has been driven at a moderate pace, the buyer should verify that the service book is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing—such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—due to their calendar-based degradation, even with the current mileage. A 12V battery health check is also advisable, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation or weak terminals, which may not be apparent until the vehicle is used.