2007 MERCEDES CLK3.5L PETROL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding structural corrosion and mechanical wear. While the car passed its February 2026 test at 82,675 miles, it followed a failure due to critical issues including parking brake efficiency and steering rack play. The record shows a persistent failure to address corrosion on the rear sub-frame and suspension arms, which have been flagged in every test since 2024, indicating that surface oxidation is progressing despite being noted. At 19 years old, the recorded mileage of 82,675 miles is significantly low, averaging approximately 4,350 miles per year. This low usage profile often leads to accelerated degradation of rubber components and metal surfaces rather than mechanical wear. Between February 2024 and February 2026, the vehicle covered only 6,521 miles, yet this period saw a surge in reported faults involving thin brake pads and deteriorated bushings. This suggests the car may sit for long periods, allowing moisture to settle on brakes and rubber components to perish. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear sub-frame and mounting points, as the corrosion noted is a recurring advisory that has not been rectified. The steering rack inner joints require close attention as play was identified in both the 2025 and 2026 tests. Additionally, the parking brake must be tested for effectiveness following its recent failure in early 2026 to ensure the underlying mechanism or cables have been properly serviced. The state of the anti-roll bar linkages and suspension arm bushes should also be checked for tearing, as these have shown consistent signs of deterioration across multiple years.