2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Classs, from 6,066 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
What stands out
Parts flagged at MOT more often on 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Classs than on all cars registered in 2009.
- Rigid brake pipes3× usualMercedes-Benz E-Class22.2% All 2009 cars7.5%Rough price £100–£400
At the viewing: Ask to see underneath, or check the MOT advisories: corroded brake or fuel pipes get worse every year and fail the MOT when they do.
- Ball joint1.7× usualMercedes-Benz E-Class11% All 2009 cars6.6%Rough price £80–£200
At the viewing: Listen for knocking over bumps and check the rubber boots behind the wheels aren't split.
- Wheel bearings2.7× usualMercedes-Benz E-Class6% All 2009 cars2.2%Rough price £100–£250
At the viewing: Listen for a hum or growl that changes as you steer at speed.
- Steering rack inner joints1.6× usualMercedes-Benz E-Class4.1% All 2009 cars2.5%Rough price £80–£450
At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Listen for knocks when turning, and check the steering feels even.
Position lamp: 1.1% here, against 7.2% of all 2009 cars. Number plate lights: 3.5% here, against 8.8% of all 2009 cars.
By area
The share of 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Brakes39% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Suspension35% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Tyres32% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Lights and electrics21% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Oil and fluid leaks12% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors8% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
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Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 6,560 | Tyres 23% |
| 2019 | 18,768 | Tyres 25% |
| 2018 | 20,762 | Tyres 26% |
| 2017 | 21,802 | Tyres 26% |
| 2016 | 19,952 | Tyres 28% |
| 2015 | 20,740 | Tyres 31% |
| 2014 | 19,480 | Brakes 33% |
| 2013 | 17,906 | Brakes 38% |
| 2012 | 13,731 | Brakes 39% |
| 2011 | 12,480 | Brakes 38% |
| 2010 | 10,492 | Brakes 38% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Classs registered in 2009. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score