2017 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 1.5L Diesel · VN66 UCC

A pattern of emerging steering and tyre wear issues is the defining mechanical characteristic of this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT test on 07 January 2026. While the vehicle has a history of passing without defects in 2023 and 2024, the 2025 and 2026 records indicate a shift towards wear-related advisories and a failure regarding the windscreen washer system. The transition from minor deterioration in CV boots and anti-roll bar linkages in early 2025 to reported play in the steering rack inner joints and edge-worn tyres in early 2026 suggests a trend of increasing wear in the front-end steering and suspension components. The recorded mileage of 136,455 miles represents a high level of usage for a nine-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 15,162 miles per year. This consistent, high-intensity usage profile typically accelerates the degradation of consumable components and mechanical linkages compared to lower-mileage examples. Mechanically, this sustained mileage increases the likelihood of premature wear on suspension bushes, drive shaft joints, and steering geometry, which aligns with the specific defects and advisories flagged in the recent DVSA history. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and front suspension during a test drive. The advisory regarding play in the offside front steering rack inner joint is a significant point of interest; you should listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when navigating uneven road surfaces. Additionally, the recurring advisories for tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges suggest potential issues with wheel alignment or camber. During the drive, check for any steering pull to one side or a wandering sensation that might indicate the suspension or steering geometry requires professional adjustment or component replacement. Further inspection should focus on the front drivetrain and suspension linkages mentioned in the 2025 record. The deterioration of the nearside and offside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boots and the anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers can lead to grease loss and subsequent component failure. On a test drive, listen for rhythmic clicking sounds while turning under load, which could indicate CV joint wear, and feel for any sudden jolts or vibrations when driving over bumps. Ensuring the windscreen washer system is fully functional is also necessary, following the failure recorded in January 2026.