Mercedes-Benz Trucks, a division of Daimler Truck AG, manufactures the Actros at its Worth am Rhein plant in Germany — the world's largest truck factory. The Actros is the best-selling truck in Mercedes-Benz history, with over one million units produced since 1996.
The Actros MP5 (current generation since 2019) introduced the revolutionary MirrorCam system replacing conventional mirrors with cameras and interior displays, improving both aerodynamics and visibility. The OM 471 12.8-litre engine delivers 421 to 530 HP with maintenance intervals of up to 150,000 km.
The Actros features Active Brake Assist 5 (emergency braking with pedestrian detection), Sideguard Assist (blind spot assistant), Active Drive Assist (Level 2 semi-autonomous driving) and Predictive Powertrain Control (automatic driving adjustment based on GPS topography). It is the truck with the highest level of series-production automation available.
The Actros is the premium benchmark of long-haul: the haulier who prioritises cab comfort, technology and brand value chooses it above all. Its technology (MirrorCam, PPC, ABA 5) cuts fuel use and accident rates, which appeals to large fleets with permanent drivers. The trade-off is a higher used price: an Actros 1845 (OM 471, 449 HP) of 4-5 years with 600,000-750,000 km sells from EUR33,000-45,000. It suits intensive international work where comfort pays off in driver retention. Coatrucks imports German Actros stock directly from origin with Star diagnostics.
The 12.8 L OM 471 is robust, but check typical points: the SCR AdBlue injectors tend to crystallise after long stops (repair ~EUR600); also check the turbo control valve and possible leaks in the cooling circuit. On the MP5 generation, verify the MirrorCam cameras and their displays work flawlessly (replacement is expensive) and that the software is up to date. Request the Mercedes ServiceCare history. The PowerShift 3 gearbox is very reliable; check the clutch at high mileage. Coatrucks verifies the SCR, cleans the DPF and checks the MirrorCam before delivery.