Mercedes 208 d
Reliability, running costs, and MOT data across 9 years from 1,089 real MOT tests.
Avg Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests
1,089
Best Year
1996 (78%)
Years Covered
9
About the Mercedes 208 d
The Mercedes 208 d has been tested 1,089 times in 2026 MOT data across 9 model years (1990 to 1999), with an average pass rate of 72%. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%, so check the year-by-year data carefully before buying. Available as diesel.
Best and Worst Years
The 1996 model is the most reliable with a 78% pass rate from 189 tests. The 1992 model has the lowest at 61%. With a 17 point spread, choosing the right year makes a big difference to reliability.
Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES 208 Ds show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (1990) averages 109,694 miles, while the newest (1999) averages 149,570 miles. Older models have covered serious mileage, so suspension and drivetrain wear are worth checking.
Compared to the Mercedes brand average of 87%, the 208 d is 15 points lower, placing it among the less reliable Mercedes models.
Estimated Running Costs
Higher due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 1999 detailsHow reliable is the Mercedes 208 d?
Mercedes 208 d by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
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