2010 Mercedes SL 5.5L Petrol · FL60 HYG

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive repairs rather than preventative care. The most recent test in May 2026 at 118,603 miles passed with an advisory for light misting on both front shock absorbers. This represents a progression from a serious failure in February 2025, where the nearside front shock exhibited a significant fluid leak. While the car has passed its latest inspection, the recurring nature of suspension and braking issues suggests that components are only addressed once they reach failure thresholds. The recorded mileage of 118,603 miles over 16 years averages to approximately 7,400 miles per annum, which is consistent with a luxury grand tourer of age. However, the data shows significant gaps between January 2023 and February 2025, where the vehicle covered only 8,623 miles in two years. Such periods of lower use often contribute to the degradation of rubber-based components and brake corrosion, as evidenced by the multiple failures for perished tyres and worn ball joints noted in 2023 and 2025. A buyer must meticulously inspect the front suspension assembly, as the history shows repeated issues with ball joints and air suspension components. The current misting on the front shocks indicates they are nearing the end of their functional life and will soon require replacement. Furthermore, the braking system shows a persistent pattern of pitted and scored discs across all axles between 2023 and 2025. An inspection should verify the thickness of the remaining discs and check for binding calipers, while the tyres require a close look for sidewall cracking or structural damage that have caused previous failures.