2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS 3.0L Diesel · KM14 GMY

With only one failure recorded across the documented MOT history and a clean pass on the most recent test dated 7 August 2026, the vehicle presents a sparse but largely unblemished roadworthiness record. The single failure, recorded just a day earlier on 6 August 2026, was a major Windscreen washer not working, a straightforward item that was evidently remedied immediately and is not indicative of any underlying mechanical concern. There are no advisories logged, no structural or corrosion items, and no repeated defect patterns to suggest chronic issues. As a 2014 CLS, the absence of recorded suspension, brake, or exhaust advisories is notable given the age of the car, though with so few tests captured the sample size is small and cannot be treated as fully representative of the vehicle's long-term mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 33,118 miles over approximately twelve years equates to an average of around 2,760 miles per year, which is low for the vehicle's age and class. Such an annual accumulation typically points to light use, though it can also indicate extended periods of standing or only occasional short journeys. Mechanically, low-mileage examples of this age carry well-known considerations: rubber components such as suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and engine and suspension mountings can deteriorate through lack of use as readily as through wear, brake discs and calipers can suffer from corrosion and seizure if the car has been left standing in damp conditions, and seals and gaskets may weep oil. Given that only two MOT tests appear in the record for this vehicle, there is limited ability to track mileage progression or detect any inconsistencies, and a prospective buyer should independently verify the odometer reading against service documentation. Given the sparse MOT data, the most useful test-drive checks relate to the components most likely to suffer on a low-mileage car of this age rather than the specific advisories on file, which are minimal. On the road, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly suggesting worn upper or lower wishbone arms, anti-roll bar drop links, or top mount bearings, and pay particular attention to any knocking from the rear self-levelling suspension, a known area on CLS models of this generation. Under braking, the pedal should feel firm and progressive with no judder, pulling to one side, or grinding noises, as seized caliper slide pins or corroded disc surfaces are common on lightly used cars; also verify that the parking brake holds firmly on an incline, as the electronic mechanism can suffer from infrequent use. When stationary, look for oil seepage around the cam covers, oil filter housing, and the area beneath the vehicle, and on start-up listen for any timing chain rattle from the front of the engine, which is a recognised concern on high-pressure common-rail diesels and some petrol variants fitted to this model. Beyond the mechanical items, it is worth confirming that all warning systems function correctly, including the screen washers, headlights, and number plate illumination, as the recent test result shows that even a simple fault can register as a major failure. Inspect the underside, sills, and wheel arches for any corrosion, particularly around the subframe mounting points, suspension turrets, and the rear arches where CLS models are known to suffer, and check that all tyres are of matching age and brand with even wear across the axle, as inner-edge wear can indicate worn suspension geometry. With the 7 August 2026 test still valid until the anniversary date next year, the timing of any purchase should also factor in the cost of a subsequent MOT, particularly given the limited recorded history available to assess long-term trends.