2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 2.1L Diesel · WU16 AAK

The vehicle passed the 24 July 2026 MOT at 88,671 miles but was issued with several defects, including a seized bonnet safety catch, a loose rear heat shield, severely worn rear brake pads and damaged front tyre sidewalls. The recurring nature of these faults, first recorded in the 17 July 2026 failure and repeated in the subsequent pass, indicates a stagnant maintenance trend rather than improvement or significant deterioration. The recorded mileage of 88,671 equates to roughly 8,867 miles per year, which is typical for a ten‑year‑old CLA. However, the interval between the 2 July 2025 test at 78,221 miles and the 17 July 2026 failure shows an accumulation of 10,311 miles in just over eleven months, suggesting a period of intensified use. Earlier gaps, such as the 4,165‑mile increase between 2 November 2024 and 18 July 2025, also point to periods of accelerated mileage gain, while the initial years display a steadier annual increment. A prospective buyer should examine the bonnet latch mechanism for proper operation and look for corrosion around the latch housing. The rear heat shield should be inspected for secure mounting and signs of rust that could compromise structural integrity. The rear brake pads, recorded as “very low” in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, merit immediate replacement, as does the front tyre whose sidewalls show perishing and cracking; tyre tread depth and sidewall condition must be verified. Additional checks should include the condition of the rear brake discs (noted as lipped in 2024), suspension bushes and coil springs for binding or excessive wear, and the overall exhaust system for corrosion or loose fixings. Any evidence of structural rust, particularly around the rear subframe where the heat shield is mounted, should be assessed before purchase.