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MERCEDES G-CLASS (2012)

Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 221 real MOT tests in 2024.

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MOT Pass Rate

90%

Total Tests (2024)

221

Avg Mileage

76,209 mi

Est. Annual Cost

£1,750

Is the 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS reliable?

Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%.

At 12 years old, 90% of MERCEDES G-CLASSs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 221 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 76,209 miles.

How does the 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS compare?

Rank among all 2012 cars123th out of 685(top 18%)
Rank among all MERCEDES models649th out of 1,408(top 46%)
vs national average+8% (82% avg)
vs 2012 cars average+12% (78% avg)
vs MERCEDES average+3% (87% avg)

Mileage Analysis

The average 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS has 76,209 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.

Best year to buy a MERCEDES G-CLASS?

The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2021 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2012 sits between the two at 90%.

How much does a 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS cost to run?

⛽Fuel (Diesel, 2987cc)
£1,245
🏛️Road Tax
£250
🔧MOT Test
£55
🛠️Predicted Repairs
£200
Total per year£1,750
Per month£146/mo

Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.

MERCEDES G-CLASS by Year

YearPass RateTestsAvg Mileage
202178%6530,190 mi
202098%6632,570 mi
201996%31941,698 mi
201894%80739,199 mi
201786%69143,730 mi
201694%60458,012 mi
201588%59148,991 mi
201492%36254,969 mi
201394%44969,675 mi
201290%22176,209 mi
201196%9270,666 mi
201073%3378,145 mi
2007100%35103,461 mi
200160%4293,234 mi
199982%44113,541 mi

Checking a specific MERCEDES G-CLASS?

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About the 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS

The 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS is a large car with a 2987cc diesel engine. 221 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 18% of all 2012 cars for reliability.

With an average of 76,209 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES G-CLASS owners drive about as much as the UK average.

2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS Fuel Costs

The 2987cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.

What does it cost to own a 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS?

Total estimated annual running cost is £1,750 (£146/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.

MERCEDES G-CLASS Reliability Trend

The MERCEDES G-CLASS has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.

Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS

At 12 years old, the MERCEDES G-CLASS is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.

Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES G-CLASS

The MERCEDES G-CLASS is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines: