2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class 1.5L Petrol · X88 XAB

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 February 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions criteria. Across the eight‑year MOT record the car has consistently passed, with only advisory notes relating to a child‑seat obstruction and a minor tyre cut in 2022; there have been no failures or deteriorating fault codes, indicating a stable maintenance trend rather than any worsening condition. At 87,967 miles on the odometer the B‑Class averages just under 6,000 miles per annum, which is considerably below the typical usage for a fifteen‑year‑old family van. This low annual mileage suggests the vehicle has spent substantial periods idle or on light duty, reducing cumulative wear on drivetrain components, but it also raises the possibility of age‑related degradation in rubber and metal parts that are not mileage‑dependent. The modest mileage does not preclude the need for periodic replacement of wear items such as brake pads, suspension bushings and tyre tread, especially if the car has been stored for extended periods. The advisory concerning a cut on the near‑side front tyre recorded in December 2022 should be verified by a visual inspection and a tread depth check; even a superficial cut can develop into a ply‑separation if the tyre has been run with the damage for an extended period. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, and confirm that the tyre pressures are within the manufacturer’s specification. The repeated child‑seat advisories simply indicate that the adult seat‑belt inspection has been obstructed; request that the seat be removed so the inspector can verify the integrity of the retractor, webbing and latch mechanism. During a test drive listen for any clunk or knock from the suspension, especially over bumps, which could reveal worn coil‑spring mounts or deteriorated rubber bushings that are more likely after long periods of inactivity. Also monitor the brakes for any pulsation, squeal or uneven pull, which may hint at disc corrosion or uneven pad wear that can develop when a vehicle sits idle for months. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related check is advisable regardless of mileage. Inspect the battery for sulphation, check the electrolyte level if it is a conventional lead‑acid unit, and assess the cranking performance; a battery older than five years often requires replacement. Examine the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for colour and consistency, as time can cause fluid breakdown even without high mileage, and consider a complete fluid change if service records are missing. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and under the rear suspension, and verify that the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended timing‑chain or timing‑belt service, as these items are driven more by calendar intervals than by the modest mileage shown.