2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 3.5L Diesel · KT59 VKG

The most recent MOT inspection on 26 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows signs of ongoing mechanical degradation rather than stability. While the vehicle successfully addressed a major failure regarding a defective nearside windscreen wiper, several advisories have persisted across multiple years, indicating that certain issues are being monitored rather than rectified. The recurring nature of the oil leak and the steering rack play suggests a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. Although the vehicle is currently legal, the presence of multiple advisories across different systems implies that the owner is managing a growing list of wear-related defects that will eventually require significant investment to maintain roadworthiness. With 124,411 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, this Mercedes-Benz CLS has averaged roughly 7,318 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age and class, suggesting it has likely been used for occasional long-distance cruising rather than heavy daily commuting. While lower mileage can reduce wear on high-friction components like brake pads and clutch assemblies, it can also lead to other issues such as rubber perishing and fluid degradation. In this specific case, the mileage is consistent with the observed deterioration of rubber components like subframe mounting bushes and the presence of an ongoing oil leak, which can sometimes be exacerbated by long periods of standing or infrequent thermal cycling of the engine. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the steering and suspension during a test drive. The advisory regarding play in the steering rack inner joints is a significant concern; you should listen for any knocking, clicking, or a vague, wandering sensation through the steering wheel, particularly when navigating uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres. Furthermore, the history of perishing rear subframe mounting bushes and the recent advisory for a cut in the nearside rear outer tyre suggest that the rubber components and tyre sidewalls are reaching the end of their serviceable life. You should inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of excessive oil seepage from the engine area to determine if the noted leak is worsening, and check the tyre sidewalls thoroughly for any signs of cracking or bulging that could indicate age-related perishing. Finally, the recurring advisory for a deteriorating front registration plate and a defective side repeater lens indicates a lack of attention to minor cosmetic and lighting upkeep. Beyond these, you should verify the service history to ensure that oil changes have been performed at regular intervals, regardless of the low annual mileage, to mitigate the effects of oil oxidation. Given the age of the vehicle, inspect the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the car has been parked for extended periods, and check for any brake shudder during deceleration which might indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Ensuring that all fluid levels, including coolant and brake fluid, are within specification and that the battery shows no signs of sulphation will be critical for a vehicle with this usage profile.