MERCEDES R-CLASS (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 622 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
622
Avg Mileage
108,424 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 83% of MERCEDES R-CLASSs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 622 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 108,424 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS has 108,424 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES R-CLASS?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2012 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES R-CLASS by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES R-CLASS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS
The 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS is a performance with a 3495cc diesel engine. 622 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 108,424 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES R-CLASS owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS Fuel Costs
The 3495cc 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 R-CLASS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES R-CLASS Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES R-CLASSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS
At 12 years old, the MERCEDES R-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 2011 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES R-CLASS
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2012) 87% pass rate (+4%) from 15,263 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2012) 84% pass rate (+1%) from 15,207 tests
- ISUZU D-MAX (2014) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 7,436 tests
- MERCEDES ML (2011) 82% pass rate (-1%) from 6,382 tests