MERCEDES-BENZ SL2017 · 3.0L PETROL

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 25 September 2025 at 35,305 miles, confirming it is currently roadworthy, though with multiple tyre-related advisories. The maintenance trend shows no improvement; the same front and rear tyres have carried cuts across three consecutive tests, and the offside front tyre has been fitted inside out for at least two years. This suggests ongoing neglect of basic tyre inspection and rotation, not a one-off oversight. The recorded mileage of 35,305 over nine years equates to an average of 3,923 miles annually, which is low for a sports car of this age. However, the gap between the 2022 and 2024 tests—nearly two years with no MOT—raises questions about usage patterns. The jump from 23,142 miles in December 2022 to 30,350 in September 2024 implies a period of higher-than-average use, followed by a prolonged static period before the 2025 tests. This kind of irregular use can accelerate rubber degradation, fluid breakdown, and corrosion in rarely driven components. A buyer must inspect the tyres closely for internal damage beneath the cuts, particularly on the nearside rear, which previously failed due to ply exposure. The repeated inside-out fitting of the offside front tyre indicates either gross mismanagement or replacement with incorrect parts, and the tyre’s condition should be verified by a specialist. The windscreen damage, while not failing, has persisted across three tests and may indicate prior impact or stress fractures that could worsen under vibration. Suspension bushes, brake calipers, and coil springs should be checked for stiffness or corrosion, as prolonged inactivity combined with sporadic use can cause binding or uneven wear. The absence of structural or exhaust advisories is reassuring, but the tyre pattern suggests the car has not been maintained to a standard expected for a premium model.