No, BV54 AKU is currently recorded as untaxed in official DVLA vehicle records.

When is the MOT due for BV54 AKU?

The MOT for BV54 AKU is valid and due for renewal on or before 4 October 2024.

What is the recorded mileage of BV54 AKU?

The recorded mileage for BV54 AKU is 157,273 miles, recorded at its most recent DVSA MOT test.

Is BV54 AKU ULEZ compliant?

No, BV54 AKU does not meet standard ULEZ emissions requirements and would incur a daily charge when driven within the London Ultra Low Emission Zone.

Official DVLA Record

2004 Mercedes C 1.8L Petrol · BV54 AKU

BV54 AKU

2004 Mercedes C (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 2004. Recorded mileage 157,273 miles. MOT expired on 04 Oct 2024.

Make & Model: MERCEDES C
Year / Origin: 2004 · Birmingham
Safety Recall: Unknown
MOT Status: Expired on 04 Oct 2024
Road Tax: Untaxed (22 Jul 2024)
Recorded Mileage: 157,273 mi
ULEZ Compliance: Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
Fuel & Engine: PETROL · 1.8L
Reliability Guide: Common Faults

MOT Status

Expired

Expired on 04 Oct 2024View ↓

Tax Status

Untaxed

Tax due 22 Jul 2024

Fuel Type

PETROL

Year

2004

Engine

1796cc

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Mechanical Assessment

AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

The vehicle’s most recent MOT, conducted on 2023-10-06 at 157,273 miles, resulted in a pass, but the report reveals persistent corrosion and wear across critical systems. Corrosion on brake pipes, suspension arms, and the rear sub-frame was noted, alongside worn brake discs and pads. These issues mirrored those from the prior failed test on 2023-10-05, indicating a worsening trend rather than resolution. The repeated corrosion suggests inadequate maintenance or exposure to harsh conditions, while the brake component wear implies potential neglect of routine servicing. The general underside condition was described as poor, with plastic covers obstructing full inspection of suspension components. The mileage progression shows a steady increase from 145,178 miles in 2021 to 157,273 miles in 2023, averaging approximately 6,000 miles annually. This rate aligns with the vehicle’s age but does not account for the recurring mechanical issues. Notably, the 2022-10-06 test recorded similar corrosion and suspension wear, with additional failures like a damaged rear suspension arm and a parking brake efficiency issue. The lack of significant improvements between 2021 and 2023 suggests a pattern of deferred maintenance. The 2022-09-27 failure highlighted a severely worn front suspension ball joint, which may have contributed to the ongoing corrosion and structural degradation. A prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the suspension system, focusing on corroded arms, bushings, and anti-roll bar components, which show consistent deterioration. Brake pipes, discs, and pads require close scrutiny for further wear or leakage, as these were repeatedly flagged. The rear sub-frame’s corrosion and the presence of an oil leak indicate potential long-term structural and mechanical risks. Additionally, the persistent issues with brake hose deterioration and suspension bushing wear underscore the need for a professional assessment of the vehicle’s undercarriage and braking efficiency.

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BV54 AKU Key Findings

4 MOT tests recorded
Latest MOT passed on 06/10/2023
157,273 miles recorded at latest MOT
2 historical MOT failures
14 defects noted at the latest MOT
Recurring brakes items (30 mentions)

Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.

BV54 AKU MOT History

Vehicle record last updated: 16 Jul 2026, 08:58

MOT Analysis

Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2004 Mercedes C (BV54 AKU) between September 2022 and October 2023.

The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.

The most recent test on 06 October 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.

Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (30 issues), Suspension (16 issues), Lighting (4 issues), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.

In total 56 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.

Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Brake pipe excessively corroded to rear at rear corroded (1.1.11 (c))”; “Offside Rear Brake pipe excessively corroded INTO BRAKE HOSE. (1.1.11 (c))”; “Nearside Rear Brake pipe excessively corroded Into brake hose (1.1.11 (c))”.

PASS

FAIL

ADVISORY

BV54 AKU Mileage History

27/09/2022151,088 mi
06/10/2022151,122 mi+34 mi
05/10/2023157,273 mi+6,151 mi
06/10/2023157,273 mi

Average of roughly 6,038 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.

Technical Specifications

May be subject to ULEZ charges

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MOT Roadworthiness Analysis

/ 100 · Below Average

DVSA Test Records Evaluated

MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average

This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.

MOT Expired or Failed

Taxed

Average MOT pass rate (50%)

Older vehicle

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OUTSTANDING FINANCE

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INSURANCE WRITE-OFF

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POLICE STOLEN (PNC)

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SALVAGE & AUCTION

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IMPORTED RECORD

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SCRAPPED RECORD

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CERTIFICATE OF DESTRUCTION

Statutory CoD

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V5C LOGBOOK & KEEPERS

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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory

Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.

Buying Score

50/100

Risk Level

High

Est. Annual Cost

£1,200-£1,500

Mileage

The recorded mileage of 157,273 miles is...

Our Verdict

This 2004 Mercedes C presents significant risks due to recurring corrosion, brake system issues, and high mileage. Unless thoroughly inspected and repaired, it is not recommended for purchase.

Prioritise a full mechanical inspection of brake pipes, suspension arms, and corrosion levels. Check for evidence of previous repairs to rust or brake components. Negotiate heavily due to the high risk of hidden issues. Be wary of 'restoration' claims – this vehicle shows signs of ongoing deterioration. Verify service history for maintenance of brake systems and suspension components.

Fuel economy for a 1.8L petrol engine from 2004 would likely be 25-30 mpg, resulting in higher fuel costs compared to modern vehicles. Road tax would apply (around £140 annually for 2023/24). Insurance groups for 2004 Mercedes models typically range 15-20, leading to above-average premiums. Maintenance costs will be elevated due to corrosion-related repairs and aging components, with annual running costs likely £1,200-1,500.

Focus on brake pipe corrosion (noted in all MOTs), suspension arm rust (5.3.3 (b) (i) failures), and brake disc condition (1.1.14 (a) (ii)). Check for oil leaks (8.4.1 (a) (i)) and suspension bush wear (5.3.4 (a) (i)). Inspect the rear sub-frame and track control bushes for further corrosion. Test the parking brake (1.4.2 (a) (i)) and ensure all brake hoses are intact. Verify that plastic covers haven't masked hidden damage.

The vehicle shows a pattern of corrosion in suspension components, brake system wear, and recurring MOT failures. With 157,273 miles at 2023, the mileage is above average for a 20-year-old car. While the 2004 model is a respected saloon, its MOT history indicates potential long-term reliability concerns.

No aggregate data available for the 2004 Mercedes C, but the vehicle's MOT history indicates common issues with corrosion and brake system wear that may be characteristic of this era's models.

Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.