2013 Mercedes-Benz C 6.2L Petrol · A16 XDB

A recurring pattern of tyre degradation and brake wear dominates the MOT record, with multiple advisories for front and rear tyres approaching the legal limit and a 2026 failure for a near‑side front outer tyre cut deep enough to expose the ply, compounded by a near‑side headlamp that failed on main beam. Earlier failures also highlighted an off‑side front tyre with exposed ply in 2021, while thin front brake pads have been flagged in both 2023 and 2025. The latest test on 28 January 2026 therefore reflects a vehicle whose primary concerns are tyre condition and brake component wear rather than structural or emission issues. The recorded 29,173 miles over a 13‑year lifespan works out to roughly 2,200 miles per annum, well below the average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or storage, which can accelerate tyre ageing and rubber cracking even when tread wear is modest. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing, with annual examinations except for the 2022 interval, suggesting the vehicle has been regularly presented for inspection despite its modest mileage. Mechanically, the low mileage reduces cumulative wear on drivetrain and suspension components, but age‑related degradation of rubber and elastomers remains a factor to address. Prospective buyers should conduct a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all four tyres, looking for sidewall cracks, dry‑rot, and any irregular wear patterns that may indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. Given the repeated near‑limit advisories and the recent cut, replacing the entire tyre set is advisable rather than rotating a single new tyre onto an older set. Verify that both headlamps illuminate correctly on high beam, checking for filament failure or wiring faults, and confirm that the lighting control switch and wiring harness are intact. The brake system warrants close attention: measure the remaining thickness of the front pads and inspect the rotors for scoring or glazing, as thin pads have been repeatedly noted. Test the parking brake for firm hold and ensure it releases cleanly, since the 2023 advisory indicated it was just meeting efficiency requirements. During a test drive, listen for any pedal pulsation, excessive pedal travel, or uneven braking force that could signal warped discs or uneven pad wear. Finally, examine the suspension bushes, control arms and shock absorbers for looseness, leaks or excessive play, as age can affect these components even with low mileage, and any knocking over bumps would suggest the need for further service.