2017 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA1.6L PETROL

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-28 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy, though with persistent tyre-related advisories that have worsened over time. The January 2026 pass at 80,619 miles reveals three tyres—nearside front, nearside rear, and offside rear—operating dangerously close to the 1.6mm legal tread limit, with edge wear indicating misalignment or uneven loading. This follows a pattern of repeated tyre issues: the 2025 test at 66,840 miles already flagged the offside rear tyre as perished and cracked, while the offside front tyre was similarly worn. The trend is clearly worsening, suggesting either neglect in wheel alignment, suspension servicing, or basic tyre rotation. No major structural or mechanical failures have been recorded, but the reliance on advisories rather than defects implies the owner has deferred critical maintenance. The mileage progression shows a steady accumulation of approximately 8,958 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no unusual gaps or spikes in service intervals, though the longest period between tests—around 16 months between the July 2023 and January 2024 passes—could have allowed for subtle deterioration in components like suspension bushes or brake pads. The absence of defects in the 2022 and 2023 tests suggests the vehicle was mechanically sound during those periods, but the recent tyre failures indicate a shift in maintenance standards or driving conditions. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly the alignment and condition of the coil springs and bushes, as these are directly linked to the tyre wear patterns observed. The repeated advisories on rear tyres warrant checking for binding calipers or uneven brake pad wear, which could exacerbate lateral forces on the wheels. Corrosion in the wheel arches or subframe should also be examined, as the perished rear tyre in 2025 may have been a symptom of longer-term neglect. Finally, the brakes—while not explicitly failed—demand scrutiny, especially the rear system, given the tester’s focus on tyre wear as an indirect indicator of braking performance.