2015 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · R50 JAK

The most recent DVSA test on 15 June 2026 recorded a failure, principally for a dangerous deficiency in the parking‑brake efficiency which was measured at less than 50 % of the required value. Although the same date also shows a pass for other items, the dangerous rating overrides the pass and indicates a serious safety concern. Over the previous three years the pattern has moved from minor windscreen damage and a corroded rear coil spring in 2024, through a series of tyre‑related failures and a major cut on the off‑side rear tyre in 2025, to the present parking‑brake deficiency. The trend is therefore clearly worsening rather than stabilising, and the vehicle will require remedial work before it can be considered road‑worthy. At 130,955 miles the car has covered roughly 11,900 miles per annum since its first registration in 2015. This annual average sits squarely within normal private‑use levels and does not suggest excessive short‑trip abuse or unusually high mileage accumulation. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the recorded history, implying the odometer has been consistently logged. Nevertheless, a vehicle with over 130 000 miles will have experienced normal wear on suspension bushings, engine mounts, drivetrain bearings and exhaust components, and the mileage alone justifies a thorough inspection of wear items. The buyer should give immediate attention to the parking‑brake system. A brake that holds less than half the required force will feel soft or spongy when engaged and may allow the vehicle to roll on a slope; listen for any excessive play in the hand‑brake lever and check that the rear drums or discs lock firmly when applied. The off‑side front inner tyre was noted as being close to the legal tread limit and worn on the edge, while the near‑side front tyre also shows edge wear; both tyres should be measured for tread depth and inspected for cupping or sidewall cracking. Any uneven wear could indicate mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes, or a failing rear‑wheel bearing. The off‑side rear tyre previously suffered a deep cut that reached the ply – confirm that it has been replaced with a tyre of the correct size and that the wheel rim shows no damage. The presence of a nail in the near‑side rear tyre is a lingering advisory; verify that the puncture has been properly repaired or the tyre replaced, and watch for vibration or a slow loss of pressure during a test drive. Beyond the immediate defects, the vehicle’s age demands a broader set of checks. The rear coil springs were recorded as corroded on both sides; inspect the spring mounts and surrounding suspension for rust, cracked bushings or sagging that could produce clunking over bumps. The front registration plate is deteriorating – ensure it is legible and securely fitted to avoid a future MOT failure. The windscreen has sustained damage that, while not obstructing the driver’s view, may propagate cracks in hot weather; examine the glass for any spreading fractures. Given the likely age of the 12‑volt battery, have it load‑tested and check for corrosion on the terminals. Finally, confirm that all service‑interval fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar schedule, as time‑based degradation can occur even on a vehicle that has not been driven heavily. Addressing these items will bring the car back within safe operating limits and provide the buyer with a clearer picture of any imminent maintenance costs.