2002 Mercedes C 2.0L Petrol · MW51 JYE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance history indicates a reactive approach to repairs rather than preventative care. The most recent test in November 2025 at 109,866 miles passed with only a minor advisory regarding a nearside front tyre reaching the legal limit. This represents a stable trend following a significant failure in late 2023, where multiple steering and braking defects were identified. While the car currently meets minimum standards, the record shows a pattern of components failing in stages. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 109,866 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 4,578 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-intensity usage, with only 3,424 miles covered between the November 2024 and November 2025 tests. This low mileage often protects engine-related components but frequently leads to the degradation of rubber-based parts due to lack of movement, which is consistent with the deteriorated brake hoses and corrosion noted in the history. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The history highlights a recurring issue with steering ball joints and suspension arms, which progressed from 2022 to a failure in 2023. Furthermore, the tester flagged corroded rear brake pipes in 2024 and deteriorated hoses in 2023. An inspector should verify that these previous repairs were effective and check for further corrosion on the brake lines or structural rust on the aging Mercedes chassis. The uneven wear on the nearside front tyre in the most recent test also suggests a potential alignment issue that requires checking to prevent premature tyre replacement.