MERCEDES CLS2006 · 3.5L PETROL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the MOT history indicates a deteriorating trend in suspension and brake components. The most recent record from the September 2023 test at 113,117 miles was PASSED, yet the previous two years (2022 and 2021) were also PASSED with no defects, suggesting that while the vehicle was maintained, the specific mechanical risks have not been addressed. The data shows that the brake pipe and exhaust mounting both failed in the 2025 and 2024 tests, with the 2025 test at 138,550 miles being the most recent failure point. This indicates that the vehicle has not undergone a full overhaul of its braking and exhaust systems since the 2022 test, leaving these critical components vulnerable to corrosion and failure. Regarding the mileage pattern, the vehicle is approximately 20 years old with a total of 138,550 miles recorded, which aligns with typical usage for this age bracket. However, the data is sparse; there is no gap in mileage between the 2023 and 2022 tests, suggesting that the owner likely maintained the car for a substantial period without any major wear events. The rapid accumulation of 138,550 miles over two years is consistent with light use or long periods of standing, which would typically result in higher mileage due to the wear of consumables like tyres, wipers, and brake discs. This accumulation is acceptable for a used car but raises concerns about the longevity of the suspension and braking systems if the owner continues to drive at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions. Given the specific faults identified in the history, the buyer must inspect the vehicle for structural integrity and mechanical wear. The most significant risks are the corroded brake pipes and exhaust mounts, which may require replacement to prevent catastrophic failure. Additionally, the 2021 test flagged a ball joint in the front lower suspension arm, and the 2023 test noted wear on suspension arm pins. These findings suggest that the suspension system is not fully maintained, and the ball joints are prone to binding or excessive play. The buyer should inspect the front lower suspension arm for play and check the front lower suspension pin or bush for corrosion or wear, as these components are critical for roadworthiness. The buyer should also inspect the brake discs and calipers for binding, as the brake pipe corrosion suggests that the braking system may still be subject to wear. Finally, the buyer must inspect the exhaust system for emissions and ensure that the mounting is sound, as the 2025 and 2024 failures indicate that the exhaust mounting is not fully maintained and may be prone to failure under high load.