2001 MERCEDES CLK3.2L PETROL

The vehicle maintains a functional roadworthiness status but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding deferred repairs on critical components. The most recent test in July 2022 at 151,686 miles flagged a significant number of advisories including thin brake pads, perished tyres, and failing shock absorbers. While the car passed, the recurring nature of deteriorating rubber and damping components suggests that the previous owner only addressed faults once they reached the threshold of an MOT failure rather than performing preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use vehicle, averaging approximately 6,000 miles per year over the last decade. However, there is a notable gap in data between January 2021 at 144,374 miles and July 2022 at 151,686 miles, representing only 7,312 miles covered in over eighteen months. This low annual mileage explains the widespread perishing of tyres and deterioration of brake hoses noted between 2019 and 2022, as rubber components degrade due to age and oxidation rather than merely tread wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the entire suspension and braking systems. The record shows a persistent history of corroded brake pipes and deteriorating hoses dating back to 2019, which poses a risk of sudden fluid loss if not fully replaced. The tester also repeatedly flagged the front shock absorbers and coil springs multiple times between 2017 and 2022, indicating the suspension is nearing the end of its service life. Given the reported oil leaks in 2019 and 2021, the engine bay should be checked for active weeping that may have worsened since the last recorded test.