2017 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · TM03 POP

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 September 2025 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were issued. The first advisory noted that the offside rear inner tyre was worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, while the second recorded that engine and underbody covers were fitted, restricting the inspector's view of certain components. Looking at the broader pattern across the last several tests, the maintenance trajectory appears broadly stable, though there is a clear recurring theme around tyre wear and brake component condition. With the exception of the clean passes in 2021 and 2024, every other test in the recorded history has surfaced an advisory or failure linked to braking or tyres, which suggests these consumables are being worked hard and warrants close scrutiny on a pre-purchase inspection. With recorded mileage of 121,437 miles over approximately 9 years, this A-Class is averaging around 13,500 miles per year, which is notably above the typical annual mileage for a car of this age. Higher mileage of this nature tends to accelerate wear on suspension components, braking systems, clutches (if applicable), drivetrain mountings and engine ancillaries. The MOT records show annual testing consistency without extended standing periods, which is positive from a corrosion perspective but means that mechanical consumables have been subjected to continuous use. The cumulative effect of this mileage on items such as dampers, bushes, CV joints and turbocharger components should not be underestimated, particularly on a turbocharged petrol or diesel Mercedes-Benz platform of this generation. Given the recurring advisories relating to tyres, particularly the rear uneven wear pattern flagged in 2023 and the offside rear inner edge wear noted in 2025, a prospective buyer should examine all four tyres carefully for uneven shoulder wear, feathering or inner-edge deterioration, as these are classic indicators of misalignment, worn rear suspension bushes, or weakened coil springs. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, as worn trailing arm or axle bushes on the A-Class are a known weakness. The earlier advisories on rear brake pad wear in 2022 and front brake pad wear in the 2021 dangerous failure indicate heavy braking component usage; therefore the current state of both the front and rear pads, together with disc thickness, surface corrosion, and any evidence of binding calipers, should be physically inspected. Brake shudder under hard stopping or uneven pedal feel would suggest disc warping or caliper slide pin seizure, both of which are plausible given the mileage. Beyond the recorded defects, the buyer should conduct a thorough age- and mileage-appropriate inspection. Given the high annual mileage, request evidence of regular servicing, including cambelt or timing chain inspection records if applicable to this engine variant, along with confirmation of recent brake fluid, coolant and automatic transmission fluid changes if fitted with an automatic gearbox. Check the 12V battery health, as intensive short urban journeys typical of higher-mileage cars can shorten battery life, and inspect the exhaust system for corrosion around joints and mounts. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking or perishing from age, even if tread depth remains adequate, and the underside of the vehicle should be examined on a ramp for oil leaks from the engine, gearbox or power steering rack, as these are common on Mercedes A-Class vehicles approaching or exceeding 120,000 miles. Finally, a diagnostic scan for any stored fault codes relating to the turbocharger, emissions system or AdBlue system (if a diesel) would provide valuable additional reassurance before purchase.