2012 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · LT62 AAO
2012 Mercedes-Benz C (2.1L, diesel). First registered 28 Sept 2012. Recorded mileage 158,833 miles. MOT expired on 21 Sept 2024. No outstanding manufacturer safety recalls recorded.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ C
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- None Outstanding
- MOT Status
- Expired on 21 Sept 2024
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (31 Dec 2024)
- Recorded Mileage
- 158,833 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.1L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
LT62 AAO Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 26/08/2023
- 158,833 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LT62 AAO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (LT62 AAO) between September 2022 and August 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 26 August 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (4 issues), Tyres (4 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”; “Parking brake efficiency below requirements (1.4.2 (a) (i))”.
LT62 AAO Mileage History
- 21/09/2022149,045 mi
- 26/08/2023158,833 mi+9,788 mi
- 26/08/2023158,833 mi
- 26/08/2023158,833 mi
Average of roughly 10,551 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
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Digital Service History
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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Approach this 2012 Mercedes-Benz C diesel with caution due to multiple MOT failures in 2023 and high recorded mileage. The SRS warning fault and braking issues are particularly concerning for a vehicle of this age and use.
Given the 2023 MOT failures, insist on evidence that all faults have been properly rectified — particularly the SRS warning lamp (airbag system) which indicates a potentially serious safety issue, and the parking brake efficiency failure. Negotiate firmly on price; the combination of 158,833 miles and repeated failures suggests deferred maintenance. Request the full service history to confirm timing belt, brake, and suspension work, as the 2022 MOT already noted slight play in anti-roll bar linkages, lower suspension arms, and both front wheel bearings.
As a 2143cc diesel registered in September 2012, this C-Class will fall into a higher road tax band than smaller cars, though exact band is not provided in the data. Insurance group is not listed, but a Mercedes-Benz C of this era typically sits in mid-to-high groups. Diesel fuel economy should be reasonable for motorway use, but with 158,833 miles, expect rising maintenance costs for suspension and braking components flagged in MOT history. Estimated annual running cost is £1,200-£1,500 including fuel, tax, insurance, and typical upkeep.
Check that the offside front tyre is correctly inflated and not damaged, as under-inflation was cited in all three 2023 tests. Verify the headlamp aim has been corrected and the parking brake meets efficiency requirements, both of which caused failure on 2023-08-26. The SRS warning lamp fault must be investigated with a diagnostic scanner, as an active airbag system fault is a major safety concern. Also inspect the front suspension ball joints and wheel bearings noted as having slight play in the 2022 MOT, as these may now require replacement at 158,833 miles.
This black 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1-litre diesel (LT62AAO) has covered 158,833 miles as of its last 2023 MOT, which is high for a 14-year-old executive car. The 2023 MOT history shows three tests on the same date, with two failures for tyre inflation, headlamp aim, parking brake efficiency, and a supplementary restraint system warning fault. Earlier MOTs in 2021 and 2022 passed but noted worn tyres, suspension play, and wheel bearing wear that may have worsened.
No aggregate MOT reliability data was available for the Mercedes-Benz C, so assessment is based solely on this vehicle's individual history.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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MERCEDES-BENZ C Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- OM651 Diesel Chain Tensioner Oil LeakModerate
The gasket on the timing chain tensioner can fail, leaking oil and potentially leading to timing chain issues due to inconsistent tension.
- Rear Subframe CorrosionSerious
The rear subframe rots from the inside out, leading to MOT failure. Mercedes often replaces these under goodwill.
- Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) failureSerious
The electronic steering lock module can fail, preventing the car from starting. The key is recognised but the steering remains locked. A common and expensive fault on W204s built before the facelift.
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