2007 Mercedes CLS 3.5L Petrol · 11 HUL

The 3.5-litre V6 petrol CLS is a relatively thirsty executive coupe, with typical real-world fuel economy in the 25-30 mpg range, meaning fuel costs of around £2,400-£2,800 per year for 10,000 miles of driving at current prices. Road tax for a 2007 petrol of this engine size sits in a higher bracket than smaller cars, and this age of vehicle is no longer exempt from ULEZ charges in London, which is worth factoring in for any city-based buyer.

Insurance for a CLS, even at this age, will likely fall into group 40-45 due to its performance credentials and original list price — expect premiums of £600-£1,200 depending on your profile. Maintenance costs for a Mercedes of this vintage can be steep, particularly for air suspension components (if fitted), brake discs and pads, and any electrical gremlins in the COMAND infotainment system. A realistic annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance, and maintenance is £3,000-£4,000, with the potential for higher outlays in any given year if major components fail.

The MOT history shows a clear pattern of brake and suspension issues at the front of the vehicle. The 2023 failure noted an excessively worn rear lower ball joint on the offside front suspension arm, and a similar advisory appeared in 2025 for slight play in the nearside front lower rear ball joint. Inspect both front suspension arms for play by hand, listen for knocking over speed bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear which would indicate worn bushes or geometry issues. The brake pipe corrosion advisory has appeared in three consecutive tests (2023, 2025, 2026 region), so thoroughly inspect all visible brake pipes, particularly the offside front outer pipe, for surface corrosion or active leaks.

Tyre condition is a recurring theme, with the 2023 test recording a structurally compromised tyre (lump from separation). Check the sidewalls carefully for bulges or cracking, and verify the manufacturing date (DOT code) on all four tyres — old tyres can perish even with adequate tread. Beyond the MOT-recorded items, the CLS is known for issues with the ABC (Active Body Control) suspension system on related models, the electric tailgate mechanism, and the 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox (if fitted) which can develop torque converter shudder. A diagnostic scan with Mercedes STAR software is highly recommended before purchase.