2012 Mercedes-Benz E 2.1L Diesel · V2 OOR

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 7 April 2026 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects recorded at 88,256 miles. The overall maintenance trend is stable, as the last three tests (2024, 2025, and 2026) show no failures or advisories. However, the 2023 test at 78,123 miles reveals a pattern of neglect in critical areas—corrosion on the nearside rear brake pipe, pitted rear brake discs, and tyres running dangerously close to the legal limit. While these issues were addressed before the 2023 pass, their recurrence suggests inconsistent upkeep, particularly in high-wear components. The mileage progression indicates typical usage for its age, averaging around 6,300 miles annually. There are no abrupt jumps or prolonged gaps that would imply excessive wear or abandonment, though the 2022 to 2023 interval (76,435 to 78,123 miles) spans 13 months—longer than the usual 12-month MOT cycle. This may reflect either delayed testing or a period of lower mileage, though the 2023 faults suggest the latter was accompanied by deferred maintenance. A buyer should prioritise an inspection of the rear brake system, particularly the nearside brake pipe for persistent corrosion and the discs for further pitting or uneven wear. The tyres, which were flagged in 2023, warrant immediate measurement for tread depth and inspection for uneven wear or edge damage. Suspension components—especially rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for stiffness or leaks, as these are common failure points in high-mileage Mercedes-Benz models. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and underbody, should also be examined, as the 2023 brake pipe corrosion indicates potential moisture ingress or salt damage.