1997 Mercedes-Benz C 3.6L Petrol · P387 HBW

The vehicle's current roadworthiness is assessed as non-roadworthy due to a persistent pattern of faults that has deteriorated the mechanical integrity of the drivetrain and suspension. The most recent test on 2026-03-17 at 142,522 miles was passed with no recorded defects, establishing a baseline of operational readiness. However, this baseline was immediately eroded by a series of failures that have not been resolved, indicating that the vehicle has not met the safety standards for its age and mileage. The maintenance history reveals a clear trend of worsening condition rather than stable upkeep. Starting from a clean record in 2023, the vehicle experienced a sharp decline in performance in 2011, where it failed on 133,885 miles due to anti-lock braking system faults, fuel leaks, and brake hose twists. This 2011 failure was followed by a second 2011 test at 134,205 miles, which was also passed, suggesting that the 2011 issue was a transient event that resolved itself. However, the 2010 test on 120,226 miles was also passed, indicating that the 2011 faults were not chronic but rather isolated incidents. The gap between the 2011 and 2010 tests, while small, implies that the vehicle has not undergone comprehensive preventative maintenance since the 2011 period, allowing the accumulated wear on critical components like brakes and suspension to reach dangerous levels. Given the recurring faults and the fact that the vehicle has not been tested in over a decade, a buyer must inspect the vehicle in person to identify any remaining structural risks. The most severe risks are present in the suspension and braking systems, where the history of brake hose twists and ABS warnings points to potential binding calipers or worn bearings. The engine and exhaust systems, which have seen oil leaks and dust covers leaking on track rod ends, require further inspection for corrosion or carbon buildup. A thorough visual and tactile examination of the suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake discs is essential to determine if these issues are minor consumable wear or serious structural integrity problems that could compromise the vehicle's safety.