2009 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · 98 BBC

The vehicle's recent MOT history indicates a worsening maintenance trend characterized by recurring mechanical and structural issues. While the most recent test on 26 June 2026 at 108,198 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle only cleared the inspection after a failure three days prior on 23 June 2026. The tester flagged a fractured nearside front coil spring during that failure, which was replaced to achieve the pass, but several significant advisories remain. These include corroded brake pipes, deteriorated suspension ball joint dust covers, and corroded rear coil springs, suggesting that while immediate safety failures are being addressed, underlying degradation is continuing. The mileage pattern shows a relatively low and consistent usage profile for a 2009 vehicle, averaging roughly 6,300 miles per year. Between March 2023 and October 2024, the car covered 1,853 miles, and it has added approximately 3,188 miles since that period. This low annual mileage often correlates with the age-related deterioration seen in the record, such as the cracking and perishing of tyres and the corrosion of metal components. The lack of heavy high-speed running may explain why the brake discs are pitted and scored rather than heavily worn from friction, but it also suggests the vehicle may sit for extended periods, encouraging surface rust and rubber degradation. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking system and the underbody. The record shows a persistent issue with brake disc condition and recurring ABS warning lamp faults, which were noted in both the October 2024 failure and the June 2026 failure. The presence of corroded brake pipes on both the nearside and offside front is a significant concern that requires close monitoring to prevent sudden fluid loss. The recurring advisories regarding corroded coil springs and deteriorating suspension dust covers indicate that the vehicle is entering a phase of age-related component failure. Specific attention should be paid to the integrity of the suspension mounting points and the condition of all rubber bushings and boots. The tester noted a severely deteriorated offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover in June 2026, a fault that mirrors the pattern of perishability seen in the tyres. Given the history of fractured springs and corroded brake lines, a professional inspection of the chassis for structural rust and a verification of the ABS system's functionality is essential before purchase.