MOT Risk Index.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT pass rate and common problems

85.2% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models passed the 2024 MOT (25,541 first tests): 82.3% at the first attempt and 3.0% after a fix at the test centre (PRS), each rounded separately. About 1 in 5 failed the first attempt. For its age, it fails 41% less often than normal: MOT Risk Index 59.4 (95% CI 57.9–61.0; 100 = normal).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class at a glance, 2024 MOT
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
MOT pass rate85.2%incl. 3.0% fixed at the test centre202425541
Passed at the first attempt82.3%all first tests202425541
MOT Risk Index (95% CI 57.9–61.0)59.4index100 = normal for its age · rank 134 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age)202425541
Biggest excess: Tyres7.6per 1008.5 same-age2019–2024148892
Dangerous defects9.1per 10011.2 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024148892
Advisory items98.3per 100127.1 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024148892
strip · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · MOT Risk Index · 59.4 vs 100 = normal · 2024
MOT Risk Index · Mercedes-Benz S-Class. 0–240; 100 = normal for its age; median model 92.8 · rank 134 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age). It would rank between 126 and 141 anywhere within its 95% interval, other models held where they are. DVSA, 2024.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class index position among 761 models
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Rank134of 761published models, 1 = fails least for its age202425541
Best rank within its 95% interval126rankother models held where they are202425541
Worst rank within its 95% interval141rankother models held where they are202425541

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Download this page's numbers (CSV) · How to cite

Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index changed from 51.9 to 59.4 in the 24 September 2026 release, after duplicate test records were removed.

What actually fails on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT, and how often?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOTs fail most often on suspension: 9.2 per 100 tests, against 14.6 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 148,892).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Suspension · 9.2 vs 14.6 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension9.2per 10014.62019–202413683
Brakes8.4per 10011.62019–202412570
Tyres7.6per 1008.52019–202411340
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment6.7per 10017.32019–20249909
Visibility5.2per 1007.92019–20247758
Noise, emissions and leaks2.8per 1003.92019–20244136

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 148,892 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Tyres, brakes and suspension: how does the Mercedes-Benz S-Class compare with cars of the same age?

The biggest excess for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is tyres at age 3: 4.3 failures per 100 tests, against 4.2 for same-age cars of comparable models (2019–2024, n = 11,048).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Tyres, age 3 · 4.3 vs 4.2 · 2019–2024
Tyres, age 3: 4.3 vs 4.2. Brakes, age 3: 0.9 vs 1.8. Suspension, age 3: 0.6 vs 0.6. Tyres, age 4: 4.3 vs 4.5. Brakes, age 4: 1.0 vs 2.4. Suspension, age 4: 1.2 vs 1.2. Tyres, age 5: 4.5 vs 5.1. Brakes, age 5: 1.1 vs 3.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, age 34.3per 1004.22019–202411048
Brakes, age 30.9per 1001.82019–202411048
Suspension, age 30.6per 1000.62019–202411048
Tyres, age 44.3per 1004.52019–202412741
Brakes, age 41.0per 1002.42019–202412741
Suspension, age 41.2per 1001.22019–202412741
Tyres, age 54.5per 1005.12019–202414277
Brakes, age 51.1per 1003.12019–202414277
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension, age 51.8per 1002.22019–202414277
Tyres, age 65.0per 1005.52019–202412544
Brakes, age 61.6per 1003.82019–202412544
Suspension, age 62.9per 1003.72019–202412544
Tyres, age 75.3per 1006.02019–202411361
Brakes, age 72.1per 1004.52019–202411361
Suspension, age 74.0per 1005.72019–202411361
Tyres, age 85.2per 1006.32019–20249913
Brakes, age 83.2per 1005.42019–20249913
Suspension, age 84.8per 1007.82019–20249913

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mercedes-Benz S-Class's advisory become a fail at the next MOT?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class advisories turn into fails less often than on the median model; the one to watch is lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: advisories on it became a fail at the next MOT 21.1% of the time.

funnel · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment · 21.1 vs median model · 2019–2024
Advisories on lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: 21.1 of 100 became a fail on the same item at the next MOT. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment21.1% next failmedian model2019–2024781
Suspension15.3% next failmedian model2019–202411319
Brakes9.8% next failmedian model2019–202420103
Tyres7.9% next failmedian model2019–202421829
Steering6.8% next failmedian model2019–2024951
Noise, emissions and leaks6.3% next failmedian model2019–20244442
Body, chassis, structure5.2% next failmedian model2019–20241837
Road wheels3.1% next failmedian model2019–2024607
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Identification of the vehicle2.1% next failmedian model2019–2024974
Non-component advisories0% next failmedian model2019–20243647

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

My Mercedes-Benz S-Class got an MOT advisory: what gets flagged most?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOTs flag brakes most: 34.1 advisories per 100 tests, against 34.7 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 148,892).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Brakes · 34.1 vs 34.7 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Brakes34.1per 10034.72019–202450786
Tyres32.8per 10039.72019–202448857
Suspension16.5per 10026.22019–202424507
Noise, emissions and leaks4.7per 1005.22019–20247066
Non-component advisories3.6per 1007.82019–20245415
Body, chassis, structure2.3per 1004.62019–20243354

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 148,892 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What is likely to fail next on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

For Mercedes-Benz S-Class models aged 3 to 5 whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is tyres: 4.0% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 24,239).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass · 3.5 vs baseline · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–20247475
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass1.9% next fail2019–20247475
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–20247475
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–20247475
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–20247475
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20247475
Noise, emissions and leaks, under 3 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20247475
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20247475
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20247475
Body, chassis, structure, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20247475
Tyres, under 3 years old, after an advisory5.4% next fail2019–20241488
Visibility, under 3 years old, after an advisory2.8% next fail2019–20241488
Brakes, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.5% next fail2019–20241488
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.1% next fail2019–20241488
Suspension, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.9% next fail2019–20241488
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20241488
Noise, emissions and leaks, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241488
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20241488
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20241488
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a fail5.3% next fail2019–2024682
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a fail3.7% next fail2019–2024682
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a fail1.6% next fail2019–2024682
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a fail1.3% next fail2019–2024682
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–2024682
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass4.0% next fail2019–202424239
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass2.5% next fail2019–202424239
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass1.5% next fail2019–202424239
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–202424239
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–202424239
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202424239
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–202424239
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202424239
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202424239
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202424239
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.0% next fail2019–202424239
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory6.0% next fail2019–20246591
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory3.9% next fail2019–20246591
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory2.9% next fail2019–20246591
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.8% next fail2019–20246591
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.4% next fail2019–20246591
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.9% next fail2019–20246591
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–20246591
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20246591
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20246591
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–20246591
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–20246591
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail6.7% next fail2019–20243504
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail4.2% next fail2019–20243504
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail4.0% next fail2019–20243504
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail2.0% next fail2019–20243504
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.8% next fail2019–20243504
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.5% next fail2019–20243504
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.2% next fail2019–20243504
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20243504
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20243504
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.3% next fail2019–20243504
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.2% next fail2019–202414239
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–202414239
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass3.4% next fail2019–202414239
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass2.2% next fail2019–202414239
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.5% next fail2019–202414239
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.3% next fail2019–202414239
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202414239
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–202414239
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–202414239
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202414239
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202414239
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory6.3% next fail2019–20245868
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory6.1% next fail2019–20245868
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory5.0% next fail2019–20245868
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory3.9% next fail2019–20245868
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory2.4% next fail2019–20245868
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory1.9% next fail2019–20245868
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–20245868
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–20245868
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20245868
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20245868
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20245868
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail7.1% next fail2019–20243719
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail6.7% next fail2019–20243719
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail5.9% next fail2019–20243719
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail5.0% next fail2019–20243719
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail3.5% next fail2019–20243719
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail2.7% next fail2019–20243719
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1.3% next fail2019–20243719
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20243719
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–20243719
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20243719
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20243719
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass6.5% next fail2019–20246843
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass5.1% next fail2019–20246843
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass4.2% next fail2019–20246843
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass3.6% next fail2019–20246843
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass2.7% next fail2019–20246843
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass2.6% next fail2019–20246843
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–20246843
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–20246843
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20246843
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20246843
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–20246843
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory9.7% next fail2019–20244562
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory8.6% next fail2019–20244562
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory6.8% next fail2019–20244562
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory5.5% next fail2019–20244562
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory4.2% next fail2019–20244562
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory3.5% next fail2019–20244562
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory1.0% next fail2019–20244562
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–20244562
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20244562
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20244562
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.2% next fail2019–20244562
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail12.0% next fail2019–20243520
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail11.8% next fail2019–20243520
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail7.9% next fail2019–20243520
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail7.7% next fail2019–20243520
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail5.7% next fail2019–20243520
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail5.0% next fail2019–20243520
Steering, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail1.4% next fail2019–20243520
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail1.2% next fail2019–20243520
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20243520
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–20243520
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–20243520
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass7.8% next fail2019–20245680
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass6.7% next fail2019–20245680
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass4.8% next fail2019–20245680
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.9% next fail2019–20245680
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.9% next fail2019–20245680
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.3% next fail2019–20245680
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–20245680
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–20245680
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–20245680
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20245680
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20245680
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory11.7% next fail2019–20244662
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory10.2% next fail2019–20244662
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory6.5% next fail2019–20244662
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory6.2% next fail2019–20244662
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory6.1% next fail2019–20244662
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory5.3% next fail2019–20244662
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory1.3% next fail2019–20244662
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory1.2% next fail2019–20244662
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.6% next fail2019–20244662
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20244662
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20244662
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail13.9% next fail2019–20243642
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail12.7% next fail2019–20243642
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail9.5% next fail2019–20243642
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail8.3% next fail2019–20243642
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail7.6% next fail2019–20243642
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail7.4% next fail2019–20243642
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail2.1% next fail2019–20243642
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.5% next fail2019–20243642
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20243642
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20243642
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–20243642
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass7.9% next fail2019–20245027
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass6.6% next fail2019–20245027
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass5.0% next fail2019–20245027
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass4.8% next fail2019–20245027
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass3.9% next fail2019–20245027
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass1.8% next fail2019–20245027
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass1.4% next fail2019–20245027
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass1.2% next fail2019–20245027
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–20245027
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–20245027
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20245027
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory13.9% next fail2019–20244676
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory13.7% next fail2019–20244676
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory8.9% next fail2019–20244676
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory7.6% next fail2019–20244676
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory6.3% next fail2019–20244676
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory2.9% next fail2019–20244676
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory2.7% next fail2019–20244676
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory2.1% next fail2019–20244676
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.8% next fail2019–20244676
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20244676
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20244676
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail17.9% next fail2019–20243825
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail15.4% next fail2019–20243825
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail11.0% next fail2019–20243825
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail8.9% next fail2019–20243825
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail7.5% next fail2019–20243825
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail4.5% next fail2019–20243825
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail3.1% next fail2019–20243825
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail2.8% next fail2019–20243825
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail2.6% next fail2019–20243825
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20243825
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20243825
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a pass7.5% next fail2019–20242437
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a pass6.7% next fail2019–20242437
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a pass5.6% next fail2019–20242437
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a pass4.2% next fail2019–20242437
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a pass2.5% next fail2019–20242437
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a pass2.3% next fail2019–20242437
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a pass2.0% next fail2019–20242437
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a pass1.6% next fail2019–20242437
Steering, 20 years or older, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–20242437
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20242437
Suspension, 20 years or older, after an advisory15.8% next fail2019–20242069
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after an advisory15.2% next fail2019–20242069
Visibility, 20 years or older, after an advisory10.8% next fail2019–20242069
Brakes, 20 years or older, after an advisory7.6% next fail2019–20242069
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after an advisory5.2% next fail2019–20242069
Tyres, 20 years or older, after an advisory5.1% next fail2019–20242069
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after an advisory3.7% next fail2019–20242069
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after an advisory3% next fail2019–20242069
Steering, 20 years or older, after an advisory2.5% next fail2019–20242069
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20242069
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after an advisory0.6% next fail2019–20242069
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a fail18.9% next fail2019–20241766
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a fail18.0% next fail2019–20241766
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a fail12.8% next fail2019–20241766
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a fail9.5% next fail2019–20241766
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a fail6% next fail2019–20241766
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a fail5.1% next fail2019–20241766
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a fail4.6% next fail2019–20241766
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a fail4.0% next fail2019–20241766
Steering, 20 years or older, after a fail2.8% next fail2019–20241766
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after a fail0.5% next fail2019–20241766
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20241766

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How often does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class get a dangerous MOT defect?

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets a dangerous defect less often than the UK average: 9.1 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. In the same tests, 27.2 major and 8.2 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Dangerous defects · 9.1 vs 11.2 · 2019–2024
Dangerous defects: 9.1 vs 11.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Dangerous defects9.1per 10011.22019–2024148892

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 148,892 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mercedes-Benz S-Class still pass its MOT in a few years?

First-time MOT failures for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class go from 9.0% at age 3 (rough estimate: 78 tests, 95% interval 4.4–17.4%) to 31.1% at age 19, against 43.5% for all cars aged 19 (2024, n = 25,541).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 3 (rough estimate: 78 tests, 95% interval 4.4–17.4%) · 9.0 vs 12.4 · 2024
Age 3 (rough estim: 9.0. Age 19: 31.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3 (rough estimate: 78 tests, 95% interval 4.4–17.4%)9.0% failed first time12.4202478
Age 4 (rough estimate: 254 tests, 95% interval 4.5–10.9%)7.1% failed first time13.12024254
Age 58.6% failed first time15.120242337
Age 69.8% failed first time17.520242338
Age 712.8% failed first time20.220242379
Age 814.1% failed first time23.320242710
Age 913.7% failed first time26.520242158
Age 1012.9% failed first time30.120241605
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1119.4% failed first time33.22024967
Age 1222.7% failed first time35.720241223
Age 1321.7% failed first time38.22024914
Age 1422.2% failed first time40.42024843
Age 1528.1% failed first time41.62024826
Age 1626.2% failed first time43.12024964
Age 1726.4% failed first time43.120241241
Age 1823.5% failed first time43.920241001
Age 1931.1% failed first time43.52024514

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How does the Mercedes-Benz S-Class compare with cars of its own age and size?

At every age shown, Mercedes-Benz S-Class models fail first time no more often than comparable models of the same size class; the biggest difference is at age 16, where they fail less often: 26.6% against 37.1% (2024, n = 5,014).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 3 · 8.6 vs 10.8 · 2024
Age 3: 8.6. Age 20: 29.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 38.6% fail10.8202411048
Age 49.2% fail12.4202412741
Age 510.5% fail14.2202414277
Age 612.7% fail16.1202412544
Age 714% fail18.3202411361
Age 815.8% fail20.620249913
Age 917.7% fail23.120248043
Age 1020.9% fail25.620246686
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1123.5% fail28.320245976
Age 1225.4% fail30.620246381
Age 1324.8% fail32.720246297
Age 1426.0% fail34.620245814
Age 1527.1% fail36.120245360
Age 1626.6% fail37.120245014
Age 1727.8% fail37.520244505
Age 1828.4% fail37.920243831
Age 1929.1% fail37.520243054
Age 2029.2% fail37.020242830

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz S-Class years should I avoid?

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class build year that fails most for its age is 2009: index 113.5 (95% CI 107.8–119.3) against the model's own age norm of 100 (2019–2024, n = 5,425).

Build year matters for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class: 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models fail more than their age would predict, 2018 ones less. Years whose confidence interval includes normal are shown without a label.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Build year 1999 (rough estimate: 507 tests, 95% interval 76.7–105.5) · 91.1 vs 100 = normal · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 1999 (rough estimate: 507 tests, 95% interval 76.7–105.5)91.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024507
Build year 2000 (rough estimate: 1,114 tests, 95% interval 99.7–121.7)110.7index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241114
Build year 2001 (rough estimate: 1,795 tests, 95% interval 95.3–112.5)103.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241795
Build year 2002 (worse for its age) (rough estimate: 2,421 tests, 95% interval 100.5–115.7)108.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–20242421
Build year 2003 (rough estimate: 3,909 tests, 95% interval 95.6–107.5)101.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243909
Build year 2004 (rough estimate: 3,540 tests, 95% interval 93.6–106.1)99.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243540
Build year 2005 (worse for its age) (rough estimate: 3,079 tests, 95% interval 102.8–117.1)110index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243079
Build year 2006 (better for its age)95.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–20246903
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 2007103index vs own age100 = normal2019–20248514
Build year 2008 (worse for its age)106.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20246185
Build year 2009 (worse for its age)113.5index vs own age100 = normal2019–20245425
Build year 201098.8index vs own age100 = normal2019–20245469
Build year 201199.8index vs own age100 = normal2019–20245755
Build year 2012 (worse for its age)112.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20247579
Build year 2013 (worse for its age)113.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–20245891
Build year 2014 (better for its age)86.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–20249855
Build year 201596.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–202413759
Build year 2016100.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–202416005
Build year 201799index vs own age100 = normal2019–202413529
Build year 2018 (better for its age)85.8index vs own age100 = normal2019–202410153
Build year 2019 (better for its age)88index vs own age100 = normal2019–20247309
Build year 2020 (rough estimate: 522 tests, 95% interval 49.8–100.3)75.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024522

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How much does it cost to fix a Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT fail?

Expected repair cost per Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT: about £51 (up to about £97 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 25,541).

Computed, not measured.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Expected repair bill · 51.0 vs modal price catalogue · price catalogue
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (price catalogue)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Expected repair bill51.0GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue25541
Estimated range lower51.0GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue25541
Estimated range upper96.9GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue25541
Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner)16.6GBP expected contribution180price catalogue25541
Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback)12.6GBP expected contribution150price catalogue25541
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid)9.4GBP expected contribution140price catalogue25541
Tyres: Tyre (single mid-range 16" fitted)6.8GBP expected contribution90price catalogue25541
Noise, emissions and leaks: Exhaust rear silencer5.6GBP expected contribution200price catalogue25541

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class more reliable than similar cars?

Of 8 similar models, 2 fail less often for their age than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 6 as often or more. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has an MOT Risk Index of 59.4, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 25,541).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Mercedes-Benz S-Class (this model) · 59.4 vs 100 = normal · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (this model)59.4index100 = normal202425541
Lexus RX59.5index59.4202436487
Porsche Cayenne57.3index59.4202430161
Mercedes-Benz GLE72.4index59.4202430531
BMW Z464.7index59.4202435286
Jaguar XJ68.5index59.4202425677
Lexus IS65.1index59.4202437265
Mercedes-Benz M-Class77.1index59.4202431973
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Porsche Macan48.5index59.4202430095

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class normally do?

At age 8, the median Mercedes-Benz S-Class had covered 62,038 miles by its MOT; the middle half ranged from 44,372 to 90,267 miles (2024, n = 2,710).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 3 median (rough estimate) · 25640 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3 median (roug: 25640. Age 19 P75: 153138. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3 median (rough estimate)25640miles202478
Age 4 median (rough estimate)36387miles2024254
Age 4 P25 (rough estimate)22663miles2024254
Age 4 P75 (rough estimate)57232miles2024254
Age 5 median60670miles20242337
Age 5 P2537077miles20242337
Age 5 P7588744miles20242337
Age 6 median62016miles20242338
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6 P2538983miles20242338
Age 6 P7597315miles20242338
Age 7 median60100miles20242379
Age 7 P2539714miles20242379
Age 7 P7590777miles20242379
Age 8 median62038miles20242710
Age 8 P2544372miles20242710
Age 8 P7590267miles20242710
Age 9 median74738miles20242158
Age 9 P2550664miles20242158
Age 9 P75110091miles20242158
Age 10 median84945miles20241605
Age 10 P2557478miles20241605
Age 10 P75123637miles20241605
Age 11 median97973miles2024967
Age 11 P2571505miles2024967
Age 11 P75133570miles2024967
Age 12 median96211miles20241223
Age 12 P2571031miles20241223
Age 12 P75129784miles20241223
Age 13 median103598miles2024914
Age 13 P2575490miles2024914
Age 13 P75135139miles2024914
Age 14 median105714miles2024843
Age 14 P2581787miles2024843
Age 14 P75137079miles2024843
Age 15 median107230miles2024826
Age 15 P2580318miles2024826
Age 15 P75137120miles2024826
Age 16 median108757miles2024964
Age 16 P2582927miles2024964
Age 16 P75138055miles2024964
Age 17 median113858miles20241241
Age 17 P2585892miles20241241
Age 17 P75142283miles20241241
Age 18 median106416miles20241001
Age 18 P2580941miles20241001
Age 18 P75135106miles20241001
Age 19 median120066miles2024514
Age 19 P2591898miles2024514
Age 19 P75153138miles2024514

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does high mileage mean more Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT failures at the same age?

At ages 6–9, 10.0% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models with under 40,000 miles failed first time, against 11.6% of those with over 140,000 miles (2024, n = 3,046). No clear mileage gap inside this age group, among cars still being tested.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 3–5, <40k miles · 8.8 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3–5, <40k miles8.8% failed first time2024882
Age 3–5, 40-70k miles9.4% failed first time2024795
Age 3–5, 70-100k miles7.4% failed first time2024557
Age 3–5, 100-140k miles (rough estimate: 329 tests, 95% interval 4.5–9.9%)6.7% failed first time2024329
Age 3–5, 140k+ miles (rough estimate: 105 tests, 95% interval 6–17.8%)10.5% failed first time2024105
Age 6–9, <40k miles10% failed first time20242057
Age 6–9, 40-70k miles14.5% failed first time20243282
Age 6–9, 70-100k miles14.1% failed first time20242004
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6–9, 100-140k miles10.3% failed first time20241247
Age 6–9, 140k+ miles11.6% failed first time2024989
Age 10–14, <40k miles (rough estimate: 334 tests, 95% interval 4.9–10.5%)7.2% failed first time2024334
Age 10–14, 40-70k miles17.9% failed first time20241068
Age 10–14, 70-100k miles18.3% failed first time20241556
Age 10–14, 100-140k miles20.5% failed first time20241468
Age 10–14, 140k+ miles22.8% failed first time20241123
Age 15+, <40k miles (rough estimate: 313 tests, 95% interval 10.6–18.3%)14.1% failed first time2024313
Age 15+, 40-70k miles20% failed first time2024863
Age 15+, 70-100k miles25.2% failed first time20241595
Age 15+, 100-140k miles27.1% failed first time20242295
Age 15+, 140k+ miles32.2% failed first time20241757

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class last?

33.3% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 10.9% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 49,103).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · 100,000 miles · 33.3 vs baseline · 2024
100,000 miles: 33.3. 200,000 miles: 2.8. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
100,000 miles33.3% of tested cars202449103
150,000 miles10.9% of tested cars202416109
200,000 miles2.8% of tested cars20244182

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class driven more or less than average, and does that change the picture?

Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class index is 60.2, against 62.9 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 25,541).

slope · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age and mileage adjusted index · 60.2 vs 62.9 · 2019–2024
Age and mileage adjusted index: 62.9 vs 60.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age and mileage adjusted index60.2index62.92019–202425541

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz S-Class fuel fails its MOT less?

There is no real difference between diesel and petrol Mercedes-Benz S-Class models before allowing for age: 17.7% against 18.6% fail first time.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Petrol · 18.6 vs other fuels · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol18.6% fail first timeother fuels20246820
Diesel17.7% fail first timeother fuels202417654

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz S-Class engine is best?

For its age, the best Mercedes-Benz S-Class engine is the petrol over 2.0 litre at index 90.9, and the worst the diesel over 2.0 litre at 103.8, where 100 = the model's own average (2024, n = 25,541).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Petrol over 2.0 litre · 90.9 vs 100 = model average · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol over 2.0 litre90.9index vs model norm100 = model average202436587
Diesel over 2.0 litre103.8index vs model norm100 = model average2024104970

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Where in Britain does the Mercedes-Benz S-Class fail its MOT most?

First-time failure rates for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class range from 10.5% in the London N (N) postcode area to 31.2% in the Hull (HU) postcode area, before allowing for age: a wider spread by area than for the typical model.

map · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Kirkcaldy (KY) (rough estimate: 314 tests, 95% interval 26.3–36.5%) · 31.2 vs 17.7 · 2024
Scotland. N. England. Wales. London. S. West. % failing. 12%. 28%. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Kirkcaldy (KY) (rough estimate: 314 tests, 95% interval 26.3–36.5%)31.2% fail first time17.72024314
Hull (HU)31.2% fail first time17.720241000
Dundee (DD) (rough estimate: 331 tests, 95% interval 26.4–36.3%)31.1% fail first time17.72024331
London N (N)10.5% fail first time17.720243593
London E (E)10.6% fail first time17.720243444
Sutton (SM)10.6% fail first time17.72024548
Lincoln (LN) (rough estimate: 455 tests, 95% interval 26.1–34.5%)30.1% fail first time17.72024455
Bournemouth (BH)29.3% fail first time17.720241220
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Salisbury (SP) (rough estimate: 332 tests, 95% interval 24.6–34.3%)29.2% fail first time17.72024332
York (YO)29.1% fail first time17.72024808
Exeter (EX)27.9% fail first time17.72024803
Bath (BA)27.6% fail first time17.72024557
Plymouth (PL) (rough estimate: 350 tests, 95% interval 23.0–32.3%)27.4% fail first time17.72024350
Truro (TR) (rough estimate: 288 tests, 95% interval 22.6–32.9%)27.4% fail first time17.72024288
Portsmouth (PO)27.4% fail first time17.720241361
Newport (NP)27.3% fail first time17.72024531
Bristol (BS)27.1% fail first time17.720241558
Crewe (CW) (rough estimate: 466 tests, 95% interval 23.2–31.2%)27.0% fail first time17.72024466
Chester (CH)27.0% fail first time17.720241124
Taunton (TA) (rough estimate: 439 tests, 95% interval 22.9–31.2%)26.9% fail first time17.72024439
Sunderland (SR) (rough estimate: 444 tests, 95% interval 22.7–30.9%)26.6% fail first time17.72024444
Torquay (TQ) (rough estimate: 251 tests, 95% interval 21.2–32.1%)26.3% fail first time17.72024251
Falkirk (FK) (rough estimate: 299 tests, 95% interval 21.4–31.3%)26.1% fail first time17.72024299
Ipswich (IP)25.6% fail first time17.720241176
Huddersfield (HD) (rough estimate: 484 tests, 95% interval 21.7–29.5%)25.4% fail first time17.72024484
Southampton (SO)25.2% fail first time17.720241542
Blackpool (FY)24.9% fail first time17.72024684
Perth (PH) (rough estimate: 198 tests, 95% interval 19.3–31.2%)24.8% fail first time17.72024198
Gloucester (GL)24.7% fail first time17.720241121
Telford (TF) (rough estimate: 259 tests, 95% interval 19.9–30.3%)24.7% fail first time17.72024259
Brighton (BN)24.6% fail first time17.720241335
Cardiff (CF)24.5% fail first time17.720241480
Preston (PR)24.3% fail first time17.720241032
Swansea (SA)24.3% fail first time17.72024853
Aberdeen (AB)24.2% fail first time17.72024558
Cambridge (CB)23.9% fail first time17.72024890
Guildford (GU)23.8% fail first time17.720241760
Colchester (CO)23.7% fail first time17.72024811
Dorchester (DT) (rough estimate: 256 tests, 95% interval 18.3–28.6%)23.1% fail first time17.72024256
Llandudno (LL)23.0% fail first time17.72024547
Northampton (NN)22.8% fail first time17.720241783
Stoke-on-Trent (ST)22.8% fail first time17.720241111
Canterbury (CT)22.6% fail first time17.72024817
Edinburgh (EH)22.6% fail first time17.720241271
Hereford (HR) (rough estimate: 179 tests, 95% interval 16.9–29.0%)22.4% fail first time17.72024179
Newcastle (NE)22.3% fail first time17.720241513
Wigan (WN) (rough estimate: 364 tests, 95% interval 18.3–26.8%)22.3% fail first time17.72024364
Norwich (NR)21.6% fail first time17.720241100
Hemel Hempstead (HP)21.5% fail first time17.720241970
Leeds (LS)21.5% fail first time17.720241272
Harrogate (HG) (rough estimate: 453 tests, 95% interval 17.9–25.4%)21.4% fail first time17.72024453
Swindon (SN)21.3% fail first time17.72024825
St Albans (AL) (rough estimate: 497 tests, 95% interval 18.0–25.1%)21.3% fail first time17.72024497
Galashiels (TD) (rough estimate: 146 tests, 95% interval 15.4–28.6%)21.2% fail first time17.72024146
Carlisle (CA) (rough estimate: 326 tests, 95% interval 17.1–25.9%)21.2% fail first time17.72024326
Inverness (IV) (rough estimate: 260 tests, 95% interval 16.6–26.5%)21.1% fail first time17.72024260
Medway (ME)21.1% fail first time17.720241179
Doncaster (DN)21.1% fail first time17.720241658
Walsall (WS)21.1% fail first time17.72024933
Peterborough (PE)21.0% fail first time17.720242447
Redhill (RH)20.7% fail first time17.720241257
Worcester (WR)20.5% fail first time17.72024604
Liverpool (L)20.4% fail first time17.720241311
Stockport (SK)20.4% fail first time17.720241748
Darlington (DL) (rough estimate: 375 tests, 95% interval 16.5–24.6%)20.3% fail first time17.72024375
Paisley (PA) (rough estimate: 421 tests, 95% interval 16.6–24.3%)20.2% fail first time17.72024421
Reading (RG)20.1% fail first time17.720242274
Halifax (HX) (rough estimate: 162 tests, 95% interval 14.4–26.6%)19.8% fail first time17.72024162
Milton Keynes (MK)19.6% fail first time17.720241885
Oxford (OX)19.5% fail first time17.720241232
Kilmarnock (KA) (rough estimate: 439 tests, 95% interval 15.9–23.3%)19.4% fail first time17.72024439
Warrington (WA)19.4% fail first time17.720241328
Sheffield (S)19.3% fail first time17.720242028
Glasgow (G)19.3% fail first time17.720241971
Tonbridge (TN)19.1% fail first time17.720241559
Dudley (DY)19.0% fail first time17.72024667
Watford (WD)19% fail first time17.720241142
Cleveland (TS)19.0% fail first time17.720241111
Coventry (CV)18.4% fail first time17.720241978
Derby (DE)18.2% fail first time17.720241415
Bolton (BL)18.2% fail first time17.720241131
Motherwell (ML) (rough estimate: 477 tests, 95% interval 14.8–21.7%)18.0% fail first time17.72024477
Wakefield (WF)17.8% fail first time17.720241021
Durham (DH) (rough estimate: 292 tests, 95% interval 13.5–22.2%)17.5% fail first time17.72024292
Manchester (M)17.4% fail first time17.720242590
Shrewsbury (SY) (rough estimate: 390 tests, 95% interval 14.0–21.5%)17.4% fail first time17.72024390
Wolverhampton (WV)17.4% fail first time17.720241016
Leicester (LE)17.3% fail first time17.720242823
Chelmsford (CM)17.0% fail first time17.720241833
Stevenage (SG)16.6% fail first time17.72024987
Bromley (BR)16.4% fail first time17.72024550
Southend-on-Sea (SS)16.2% fail first time17.720241822
Kingston upon Thames (KT)15.9% fail first time17.720242405
Oldham (OL)15% fail first time17.72024840
Nottingham (NG)14.8% fail first time17.720242759
Bradford (BD)14.7% fail first time17.720241203
Luton (LU)14.7% fail first time17.720241385
Birmingham (B)14.3% fail first time17.720245924
Blackburn (BB)14.2% fail first time17.72024979
Croydon (CR)14.0% fail first time17.720241719
Slough (SL)13.8% fail first time17.720242730
Dartford (DA)13.8% fail first time17.720241401
London SE (SE)13.5% fail first time17.720242097
Enfield (EN)13.4% fail first time17.720241894
Harrow (HA)13.2% fail first time17.720243391
Lancaster (LA) (rough estimate: 288 tests, 95% interval 9.5–17.2%)12.8% fail first time17.72024288
London SW (SW)12.7% fail first time17.720242401
Ilford (IG)12.7% fail first time17.720242395
London NW (NW)12.4% fail first time17.720246127
London W (W)12.2% fail first time17.720242401
Romford (RM)12.2% fail first time17.720242659
Uxbridge (UB)12.0% fail first time17.720244922
Twickenham (TW)10.6% fail first time17.720243369

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class rust more than average?

Allowing for age, Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOTs record corrosion failures at 1.0 times the national rate: 0.78% of tests against 0.77% (2024 + geographic layers, n = 24,695).

Computed, not measured.

slope · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Salt belt susceptibility · 1.0 vs 1 · 2024 + geographic layers
Salt belt susceptibility: 1 vs 1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024 + geographic layers)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Salt belt susceptibility1.0ratio estimate12024 + geographic layers24695

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 + geographic layers · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is a Mercedes-Benz S-Class ULEZ compliant?

An estimated 54.1% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models tested are likely ULEZ-compliant, judged from fuel type and first-use date; check a specific car with TfL's vehicle checker (2024).

Computed, not measured.

stacked · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Likely compliant · 54.1 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Likely compliant54.1% estimate202425541

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do six years of MOTs show about owning a Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Of failed Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOTs, 26.4% were retested the same day and a further 68.0% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 1 day (2019–2024, n = 18,716).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Same-day retest · 26.4 vs failed initial tests · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Same-day retest26.4%failed initial tests2019–202418716
Retest within 10 days68.0%failed initial tests2019–202418716
Clean MOT streak47.3%observed chains2019–202427436
Repeat advisory20.6%observed chains2019–202427436
Decreasing odometer1.8% mileage anomalyobserved chains2019–202430094

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is low mileage better for a Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class models aged 5 to 14 doing under 5,000 miles a year failed first time in 11.8% of tests, against 18.8% for those doing 8,000 to 12,000 miles (2019–2024, n = 14,204).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Low-use first-time failure · 11.8 vs 18.8 · 2019–2024
Low-use first-time failure: 11.8 vs 18.8. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Low-use first-time failure11.8%18.82019–202414204
Low-use gap-6.9percentage points8–12k miles2019–202414204

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many years is a Mercedes-Benz S-Class likely to last?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class models tend to last: at ten years old the typical one has about 7.4 more years of MOTs ahead, more than the median model. This is a forecast from the survival curve and may not come true.

Computed, not measured.

Forecast, not a prediction for a particular car.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 5 · 7.7 vs baseline · survival forecast
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (survival forecast)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 57.7years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 86.6years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 107.4years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 125.8years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 15 (at least; observed only until age 19)3.6years forecastsurvival forecast0

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: survival forecast · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz S-Class models are still on the road?

In 2024, for every 100 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models tested at ages 4 to 6, about 23 were tested at age 19 (2024, n = 3,054).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Age 3 · 83.8 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3: 83.8. Age 19: 23.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 383.8% of age 4–6 baseline202411048
Age 496.6% of age 4–6 baseline202412741
Age 5 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline202414277
Age 695.1% of age 4–6 baseline202412544
Age 786.2% of age 4–6 baseline202411361
Age 875.2% of age 4–6 baseline20249913
Age 961% of age 4–6 baseline20248043
Age 1050.7% of age 4–6 baseline20246686
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1145.3% of age 4–6 baseline20245976
Age 1248.4% of age 4–6 baseline20246381
Age 1347.8% of age 4–6 baseline20246297
Age 1444.1% of age 4–6 baseline20245814
Age 1540.6% of age 4–6 baseline20245360
Age 1638% of age 4–6 baseline20245014
Age 1734.2% of age 4–6 baseline20244505
Age 1829.1% of age 4–6 baseline20243831
Age 1923.2% of age 4–6 baseline20243054

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

If a Mercedes-Benz S-Class fails, does it fail again?

24.1% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models that failed an MOT failed the next one too, against 14.9% after a pass (2019–2024, n = 5,938). The failure most likely to come back is steering: 29.0% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.

bullet · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Repeat after fail · 24.1 vs 14.9 · 2019–2024
Repeat after fail: 24.1 vs 14.9. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Repeat after fail24.1%14.92019–20245938

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz S-Class faults come together?

On Mercedes-Benz S-Class models, ‘body, chassis, structure’ and seat belts and supplementary restraint systems failures turn up together 10.7 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 116).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 116 tests, 95% interval 8.8–12.8)10.7liftexpected joint rate2024116
Body, chassis, structure + Steering (rough estimate: 100 tests, 95% interval 8.1–12.1)9.9liftexpected joint rate2024100
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Steering (rough estimate: 81 tests, 95% interval 7.1–11.1)8.9liftexpected joint rate202481
Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 496 tests, 95% interval 7.6–9.1)8.4liftexpected joint rate2024496
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 434 tests, 95% interval 7.4–8.9)8.1liftexpected joint rate2024434
Body, chassis, structure + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 263 tests, 95% interval 7.2–9.2)8.1liftexpected joint rate2024263
Brakes + Noise, emissions and leaks7.1liftexpected joint rate20241210
Body, chassis, structure + Brakes (rough estimate: 442 tests, 95% interval 6.3–7.6)7.0liftexpected joint rate2024442
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering (rough estimate: 331 tests, 95% interval 6.0–7.5)6.7liftexpected joint rate2024331
Steering + Suspension (rough estimate: 473 tests, 95% interval 6.1–7.3)6.7liftexpected joint rate2024473
Brakes + Steering (rough estimate: 331 tests, 95% interval 5.6–7.0)6.3liftexpected joint rate2024331
Body, chassis, structure + Suspension6.1liftexpected joint rate2024524
Noise, emissions and leaks + Steering (rough estimate: 157 tests, 95% interval 4.9–6.8)5.8liftexpected joint rate2024157
Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 50 tests, 95% interval 4.0–7.2)5.5liftexpected joint rate202450
Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 309 tests, 95% interval 4.8–6.0)5.4liftexpected joint rate2024309
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Noise, emissions and leaks5.3liftexpected joint rate2024850
Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment5.3liftexpected joint rate20241658
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension (rough estimate: 395 tests, 95% interval 4.7–5.7)5.2liftexpected joint rate2024395
Noise, emissions and leaks + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 126 tests, 95% interval 4.3–6.1)5.1liftexpected joint rate2024126
Identification of the vehicle + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 76 tests, 95% interval 4.0–6.3)5.0liftexpected joint rate202476
Body, chassis, structure + Visibility (rough estimate: 304 tests, 95% interval 4.4–5.6)5.0liftexpected joint rate2024304
Brakes + Suspension4.9liftexpected joint rate20242201
Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 142 tests, 95% interval 4.1–5.7)4.9liftexpected joint rate2024142
Identification of the vehicle + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 24 tests, 95% interval 3.0–7.1)4.8liftexpected joint rate202424
Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 131 tests, 95% interval 4.0–5.6)4.8liftexpected joint rate2024131
Noise, emissions and leaks + Suspension4.7liftexpected joint rate20241069
Road Wheels + Tyres (rough estimate: 245 tests, 95% interval 4.1–5.3)4.7liftexpected joint rate2024245
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension4.6liftexpected joint rate20241940
Brakes + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 218 tests, 95% interval 3.9–5.2)4.5liftexpected joint rate2024218
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 203 tests, 95% interval 3.9–5.2)4.5liftexpected joint rate2024203
Road Wheels + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 37 tests, 95% interval 3.1–6.2)4.5liftexpected joint rate202437
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility4.2liftexpected joint rate20241249
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility (rough estimate: 223 tests, 95% interval 3.5–4.6)4.1liftexpected joint rate2024223
Road Wheels + Steering (rough estimate: 31 tests, 95% interval 2.8–5.8)4.0liftexpected joint rate202431
Brakes + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 117 tests, 95% interval 3.3–4.8)4.0liftexpected joint rate2024117
Noise, emissions and leaks + Tyres3.9liftexpected joint rate2024735
Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 22 tests, 95% interval 2.5–5.9)3.9liftexpected joint rate202422
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres (rough estimate: 241 tests, 95% interval 3.4–4.4)3.9liftexpected joint rate2024241
Body, chassis, structure + Tyres (rough estimate: 264 tests, 95% interval 3.4–4.3)3.8liftexpected joint rate2024264
Road Wheels + Suspension (rough estimate: 246 tests, 95% interval 3.3–4.3)3.8liftexpected joint rate2024246
Brakes + Tyres3.7liftexpected joint rate20241362
Road Wheels + Visibility (rough estimate: 165 tests, 95% interval 3.0–4.1)3.5liftexpected joint rate2024165
Steering + Tyres (rough estimate: 202 tests, 95% interval 3.0–4.0)3.5liftexpected joint rate2024202
Steering + Visibility (rough estimate: 171 tests, 95% interval 2.9–3.9)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024171
Identification of the vehicle + Tyres (rough estimate: 108 tests, 95% interval 2.8–4.0)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024108
Noise, emissions and leaks + Visibility3.3liftexpected joint rate2024547
Brakes + Visibility3.3liftexpected joint rate20241046
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres3.2liftexpected joint rate20241091
Suspension + Tyres3.1liftexpected joint rate20241514
Identification of the vehicle + Suspension (rough estimate: 121 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.6)3.0liftexpected joint rate2024121
Identification of the vehicle + Visibility (rough estimate: 85 tests, 95% interval 2.4–3.7)3liftexpected joint rate202485
Suspension + Visibility2.9liftexpected joint rate20241255
Tyres + Visibility2.5liftexpected joint rate2024888
Identification of the vehicle + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Identification of the vehicle + Steering (seen together; too few for a multiplier)17tests with both202417
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Brakes + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Noise, emissions and leaks + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Has the Mercedes-Benz S-Class had safety recalls?

DVSA lists 99 safety recall campaigns matched to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (DVSA register)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
DVSA recall campaigns matched99campaignsDVSA registerDVSA register25541

Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class cost to run in a fleet?

Of every 100 Mercedes-Benz S-Class models tested at age 5, about 9 failed the MOT first time; at age 10, about 13 (rough estimate). These are one-year rates for different cars tested in the same year, not a fleet followed over time; the steepest one-year step in this cross-section is between cars aged 6 and 7, 3.07 percentage points (2024).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 4 (rough estimate: 254 tests, 95% interval 4.5–10.9%)7.1% fail first time2024254
Age 58.6% fail first time20242337
Age 69.8% fail first time20242338
Age 712.8% fail first time20242379
Age 814.1% fail first time20242710
Age 913.7% fail first time20242158
Age 10 (rough estimate: 1,605 tests, 95% interval 11.3–14.6%)12.9% fail first time20241605
Age 11 (rough estimate: 967 tests, 95% interval 17.1–22.1%)19.4% fail first time2024967
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 12 (rough estimate: 1,223 tests, 95% interval 20.4–25.1%)22.6% fail first time20241223
Age 13 (rough estimate: 914 tests, 95% interval 19.1–24.4%)21.7% fail first time2024914
Age 14 (rough estimate: 843 tests, 95% interval 19.5–25.1%)22.2% fail first time2024843
Age 15 (rough estimate: 826 tests, 95% interval 25.1–31.3%)28.1% fail first time2024826
Age 16 (rough estimate: 964 tests, 95% interval 23.6–29.1%)26.2% fail first time2024964
Age 17 (rough estimate: 1,241 tests, 95% interval 24.1–28.9%)26.4% fail first time20241241
Age 18 (rough estimate: 1,001 tests, 95% interval 21.0–26.2%)23.5% fail first time20241001
Age 19 (rough estimate: 514 tests, 95% interval 27.3–35.3%)31.1% fail first time2024514

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What have dealers been told about the Mercedes-Benz S-Class? (US market)

NHTSA lists 697 US technical service bulletins for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only); a count, not a UK failure rate.

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · US service bulletins · 697 vs NHTSA · NHTSA
NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
US service bulletins697bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 20138bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201461bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201536bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201627bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201747bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201838bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 201921bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Full table
Further values · NHTSA
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Year 202025bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 202131bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 202252bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 202346bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 202489bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 2025108bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541
Year 2026108bulletinsNHTSANHTSA25541

Source: NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do owners complain about? (US market)

The most common US owner complaint about the Mercedes-Benz S-Class to NHTSA concerns lamps & electrical: 38 complaints (US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only).

bar · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Lamps &amp; electrical · 38 vs baseline · NHTSA + 2024
NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA + 2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps & electrical38complaintsNHTSA + 202438
Engine (not MOT-tested)35complaintsNHTSA + 202435
Tyres29complaintsNHTSA + 202429
Brakes28complaintsNHTSA + 202428
Restraints27complaintsNHTSA + 202427
Visibility21complaintsNHTSA + 202421

Source: NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz S-CLASS and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA + 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does the Mercedes-Benz S-Class fail inspections in other countries too?

In the Netherlands, 48.0% of Mercedes-Benz S-Class models failed their periodic roadworthiness inspection, against 50.8% for all cars there (2024 by country, n = 4,964 inspections).

Both readings are shown: this comparison changes when usage or inspection rules differ.

Inspections abroad disagree: the Netherlands point the same way as Britain, Norway and Finland do not. Test rules, climate and how the vehicles are used differ, so both readings are shown.

bullet · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · Norway · 41.2 vs 33.7 · 2024 by country
Norway: 41.2 vs 33.7. Finland: 26.7 vs 26.3. Netherlands: 48 vs 50.8. Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024 by country)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Norway41.2% failed33.72024 by country724
Finland26.7% failed26.32024 by country2072
Netherlands48% failed50.82024 by country4964

Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV · licences and full notice

Does the month of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT matter?

Mercedes-Benz S-Class models fail first time most in February (19.4%, against 30.0% for all cars that month) and least in December (16.8%) (2024, n = 25,541).

line · Mercedes-Benz S-Class · January · 19.3 vs 31.1 · 2024
January: 19.3. December: 16.8. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
January19.3% fail first time31.1202412523
February19.4% fail first time30.0202412053
March17.7% fail first time28.3202414379
April18.3% fail first time29.820249962
May17.0% fail first time28.8202411026
June17.5% fail first time28.1202411676
July18.6% fail first time29.3202411605
August18.4% fail first time29.2202411184
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
September17.6% fail first time28.2202413861
October18.6% fail first time30.3202414802
November18.1% fail first time30.6202414433
December16.8% fail first time29.3202411388

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Not enough tests for… (and why)

Real-world MPG against the official figure (manufacturer level)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 25,541 initial Mercedes-Benz S-Class tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 25,541 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Mercedes-Benz GLC, a car of the same inspection class with 3.1× the tests · Check your car by registration

How to cite this page

MOT Risk Index (2026). Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/mercedes-s-class/

How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class MOT: quick answers

What is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class first-time MOT pass rate?

82.3% of first attempts passed in 2024 (25,541 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.

Why does this number differ from other sites?

Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 25,541 primary tests: 17.74% failed first time and 85.2% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 59.4 is shown separately.