2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.5L Petrol · TS02 TJS

The most recent MOT, conducted on 14 November 2025, resulted in a pass but recorded an advisory that the near‑side front road wheel is slightly distorted. Over the past seven years the vehicle has accumulated a growing list of advisories – recurring slight play in both front wheel bearings, progressive wear on front and rear brake discs, a thin rear‑side front brake pad and the current wheel‑distortion note. While none of these items have caused a failure, the pattern shows a gradual increase in wear rather than a stabilising trend, indicating that components are approaching the end of their service lives and will likely need attention in the near future. At 62 027 miles for a 2012 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4 400 mi, well below the UK average of about 10 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Infrequent running can allow moisture to settle in bearings, promote corrosion on the chassis and suspension, and allow fluids to degrade even when the engine is not under load. Conversely, the modest mileage suggests that high‑stress wear items such as the timing chain, transmission gears and major engine bearings may be relatively untouched, provided the car has been stored in a dry environment. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front wheel assembly. The advisory about a slightly distorted near‑side front wheel can manifest as a subtle vibration at higher speeds, uneven tyre wear or a pulling sensation when steering. Verify that the tyre sidewalls are free from cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, and check that the wheel is true by rolling the car on a flat surface and observing any wobble. The repeated “slight play” noted in both front wheel bearings warrants a hands‑on check – with the car lifted, grasp the wheel at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions and attempt to rock it; any perceptible movement indicates bearing wear that may soon require replacement. Inspect the brake discs for scoring or rust, especially on the front where the advisory has persisted for several years, and be prepared for a possible resurfacing or replacement of both front and rear discs, along with fitting new rear pads given the thin‑pad warning from 2023. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑mileage profile, time‑related items deserve attention even if mileage wear is low. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for age‑related perishing; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. Check the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance, as prolonged storage can lead to sulfation and reduced capacity. Inspect the under‑body for any signs of corrosion on suspension bushes, coil springs, and sub‑frame joints, and verify that all fluid reservoirs – brake fluid, coolant, power‑steering and gearbox oil – are at the correct levels and appear clear, noting that many of these fluids degrade after five years and should be flushed on a calendar basis. Finally, request the full service book and any recent independent inspections to confirm that the low mileage is genuine and that routine maintenance, such as timing‑chain tensioner checks and air‑filter replacement, has been performed in line with Mercedes‑Benz recommendations.