2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 315 Premium CDI 1.9L Diesel · TA13 OLT

The latest MOT test for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 315 Premium CDI on 2025-10-14 resulted in a failure due to two non-roadworthy issues: the offside front position lamp circuit being non-functional and the near-side windscreen washer jets being misaligned with insufficient fluid distribution. However, this failure occurred immediately after a clean pass on the same date in October 2024, suggesting either a testing anomaly or a transient issue that resolved itself. The intervening test on 2025-04-17 was entirely passed, with only advisories noted rather than failures, indicating a stable maintenance trend with no persistent defects. The presence of recurring advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear and suspension ball joints—suggests that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, it may require closer attention to prevent further degradation of critical components. The recorded mileage of 103,840 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 25,960 miles per annum, which is notably elevated compared to typical light-use scenarios. Such mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as potential stress on drivetrain elements such as the transmission and exhaust system. The advisories for tyre wear close to the legal limit, particularly on the offside and near-side front tyres, indicate that the vehicle has undergone significant lateral and longitudinal stress, leading to uneven tread degradation. This could be exacerbated by misalignment issues or improper load distribution, which may have contributed to the observed edge wear. Additionally, the slight play in both front suspension arm ball joints suggests that these components may be approaching end-of-life, warranting inspection for signs of excessive wear, binding, or internal failure. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the suspension system and tyre condition. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, which could indicate failing suspension arms, ball joints, or coil springs. Inspect the front tyres for uneven wear patterns, particularly around the edges, and measure tread depth to confirm compliance with legal limits. The brake system should be evaluated for signs of pulsation or shudder, which may suggest warped discs or binding calipers, especially given the advisories for worn and pitted brake discs. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks around the suspension components, as oil or grease stains could signal failing seals or bushings. The offside front position lamp failure from the 2025-10-14 MOT suggests that the wiring or bulb socket may need verification, but this is unlikely to impact roadworthiness if rectified promptly. Beyond the immediate checks, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the drivetrain and exhaust system, given the high mileage. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery and alternator, as prolonged idling or high demand from accessories could lead to voltage drops or failure. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion or cracks, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipes, as the Sprinter’s CDI engine is prone to emissions-related wear. Check the service history for scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and fluid top-ups, as the 12-month calendar-based fluid servicing may have lapsed. Finally, examine the vehicle’s structural integrity for signs of rust, especially in areas prone to moisture exposure such as wheel arches, undercarriage, and door sills, as the Sprinter’s body construction can be susceptible to corrosion over time. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture and that the engine has been run to prevent long-term damage.