MERCEDES SL2004 · 3.5L PETROL

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a gradual degradation of suspension-related components. The most recent test in August 2025 at 62,310 miles identified a slight play in the nearside front Macpherson strut ball joint. This follows a progression of issues noted in 2023, where the nearside front wheel bearing also showed play. While the car continues to pass tests, the recurring nature of front-end wear suggests that components are reaching the end of their service life. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,832 miles per year. Between August 2021 and August 2024, the car covered only 1,714 miles over a three-year period. This low usage often indicates the vehicle sits for long periods, which explains the perishing-related failure of rubber components. The tester flagged perished tyres and rubber cracking in 2023, which is a common symptom of age-related decay rather than mechanical mileage. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the door sills. Records from 2022 and 2023 indicate that outer sill covers were fitted, preventing the tester from performing a full inspection of the metalwork. Given the age of the Mercedes, hidden corrosion under these covers is a significant risk. Additionally, the front suspension requires a close look as the ball joints and shock absorber bushes have been flagged for wear across multiple years. The rear brake discs, noted as pitted and scored in 2021, should be checked for thickness and surface quality to ensure they have been replaced since then.