2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 3.2L Diesel · VU53 BHX
2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (3.2L, diesel). First registered 16 Dec 2003. Recorded mileage 188,942 miles. MOT expired on 24 Jul 2026.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Worcester
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 24 Jul 2026
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 188,942 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 3.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
VU53 BHX Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 01/07/2025
- 188,942 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
VU53 BHX MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (VU53 BHX) between January 2023 and July 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 01 July 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (6 issues), Tyres (5 issues), Suspension (3 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 10 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Road wheel fixing missing (5.2.1 (a) (i))”; “Nearside Front Lower Suspension arm ball joint excessively worn Front. (5.3.4 (a) (i))”; “Nearside Direction indicator not working (4.4.1 (a) (ii))”.
VU53 BHX Mileage History
- 23/01/2023173,533 mi
- 26/04/2024179,452 mi+5,919 mi
- 24/07/2024177,084 mi-2,368 mi
- 26/07/2024177,084 mi
- 01/07/2025188,942 mi+11,858 mi
Average of roughly 6,324 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Recorded mileage decreased between one or more tests — a potential clocking indicator worth verifying before purchase.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Poor
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
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MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2003 model year cars.
- Biodegradable wiring harness insulationSerious
Mercedes used a soy-based wiring insulation that degrades over time, exposing bare wires and causing short circuits, random warning lights and potential fire risk. Engine bay harnesses are worst affected.
- Airmatic suspension collapseSerious
The air springs and compressor degrade with age. Cars sag overnight, ride poorly and the compressor eventually burns out if leaks are ignored.
- SBC brake system failureSerious
The Sensotronic Brake Control unit can reach its cycle limit or fail, bringing brake warnings and a hard pedal. Replacement units are expensive and the system is complex.
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