2004 Mercedes SLK 1.8L Petrol · WG54 AAF

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of unresolved mechanical wear and neglect. While the most recent test in November 2025 at 108,461 miles passed, it flagged recurring play in both steering rack inner joints and a minor exhaust leak. These issues have been present in almost every test dating back to 2022, suggesting that the owner performs only the minimum repairs required to pass the MOT rather than addressing the root cause of the mechanical degradation. At 108,461 miles, this 22-year-old Mercedes sits low, averaging approximately 4,930 miles per year. The usage pattern appears consistent, with roughly 13,000 miles covered between November 2023 and November 2025. However, the low annual mileage correlates with the visible deterioration of rubber components, evidenced by repeated reports of perishing and cracking tyres in 2022 and 2023. This suggests the car may sit for long periods, allowing seals and gaiters to dry out. A buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the steering system and suspension, as the recurring play in the inner joints indicates a significant and ongoing steering deficiency. The 2024 failure specifically noted a missing steering rack gaiter, which allows grit to enter the internal mechanism and accelerates wear. Furthermore, the record notes underside corrosion as of late 2024, which requires a close look at the chassis integrity and mounting points to ensure structural rust has not progressed beyond surface level. The braking system also shows a history of pitting and scoring on both front and rear discs noted in late 2024, likely caused by low-mileage use that prevents surfaces from cleaning. The persistent oil leak from the gearbox sump documented since 2023 should be monitored for increased volume. Given the recurring exhaust leaks and steering issues, the vehicle requires immediate investment to bring it to a high mechanical standard.