2010 Mercedes-Benz C 6.2L Petrol · 11 EAC

A recurring pattern of tyre degradation and brake component wear defines the mechanical history of this vehicle, culminating in a significant failure in December 2024. While the most recent test on 17 December 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, the preceding years show a consistent trend of advisories regarding perishing tyres and thinning front brake pads. The 2024 failure was particularly severe, involving a dangerous defect where the front tyres had exposed cords and an inoperative engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), indicating a critical electrical or sensor-related fault that required rectification to meet roadworthiness standards. The recorded mileage of 35,321 miles over a sixteen-year period represents an exceptionally low annual average of approximately 2,208 miles. This usage profile suggests the vehicle has spent significant periods stationary or has been used for very short, infrequent journeys. Mechanically, such low usage can lead to specific issues, such as the sidewall cracking and perishing noted in the 2023 and 2024 MOT records, as rubber compounds degrade due to age and lack of movement rather than tread wear alone. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the condition of all four tyres, as the record shows a history of both edge wear and structural perishing. On a test drive, listen for uneven road noise or vibrations that could indicate irregular wear patterns or internal tyre structure issues. Given the previous advisory regarding front brake pads wearing thin across multiple years, it is essential to test the braking performance. Listen for any metallic grinding noises during deceleration and check for any pedal judder or sponginess, which could indicate uneven pad wear or issues with the braking system components. The 2024 failure regarding the engine MIL necessitates a verification that the dashboard warning lights are functioning correctly. During the inspection, ensure that the engine management light illuminates upon switching the ignition to the on position and extinguishes once the engine is running, as an inoperative warning lamp is a major failure point. Additionally, because the tyres have frequently been flagged for wearing on the inside edges, a thorough check of the suspension bushes and alignment settings is advisable to ensure there are no underlying steering or suspension geometry faults causing premature tyre wear.