MERCEDES V (2018)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 5,799 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,845
£154/month
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Good
Road Tax
£195
Flat rate/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2143cc Diesel
Solid Option
87% pass rate, £1845/year to run. 5 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Flat rate (post-2017)
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 8 years old, 87% of MERCEDES Vs from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 5,799 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 96,207 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
96,207
Average miles
59,200
Expected for age
The average 2018 MERCEDES V has 96,207 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2024 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 52%. The 2018 sits between the two at 87%.
MERCEDES V by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 97% | 74 | 12,396 mi | |
| 2023 | 96% | 188 | 35,586 mi | |
| 2022 | 93% | 107 | 37,213 mi | |
| 2021 | 89% | 398 | 29,456 mi | |
| 2020 | 88% | 599 | 54,337 mi | |
| 2019 | 91% | 5,899 | 88,757 mi | |
| 2018 | 87% | 5,799 | 96,207 mi | |
| 2017 | 88% | 5,197 | 117,261 mi | |
| 2016 | 88% | 3,460 | 126,363 mi | |
| 2015 | 87% | 2,251 | 144,371 mi | |
| 2010 | 83% | 47 | 64,603 mi | |
| 2008 | 73% | 41 | 80,371 mi | |
| 2007 | 82% | 44 | 64,512 mi | |
| 2003 | 66% | 133 | 126,103 mi | |
| 2002 | 74% | 257 | 159,077 mi | |
| 2001 | 72% | 202 | 128,393 mi | |
| 2000 | 61% | 141 | 86,965 mi | |
| 1999 | 71% | 176 | 116,167 mi | |
| 1998 | 64% | 140 | 97,675 mi | |
| 1997 | 52% | 56 | 100,667 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2018 MERCEDES V
The 2018 MERCEDES V is a family car with a 2143cc diesel engine. 5,799 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 96,207 miles at 8 years old, MERCEDES V owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2018 MERCEDES V Fuel Costs
The 2143cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 2018 MERCEDES V?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,845 (£154/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £195 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES V Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES Vs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 22 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2018 MERCEDES V
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2024 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. With 5,799 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2018 MERCEDES V's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
AdBlue System
Medium riskPost-2015 diesels use AdBlue for emissions. Sensor failures and tank heater issues are common. Budget £200-£500 for repairs.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
Suspension Wear
Medium riskShock absorbers, springs, and anti-roll bar links typically need attention around this age. Listen for clunks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 96k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2018 MERCEDES V stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MERCEDES V(2018) | 87% | £1245 | £195 | Grp 25-38 | £1845 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2018) | 92% | £1037 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1482-£363 |
| FORD TRANSIT(2017) | 81% | £1037 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1632-£213 |
| FORD KUGA(2019) | 91% | £1037 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1482-£363 |
| KIA SPORTAGE(2016) | 85% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1577-£268 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Mercedes Models
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