2010 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · A24 BAJ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 21 November 2025, although it did so with an advisory regarding slight play in the nearside front wheel bearing. Reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend appears stable but is beginning to show the expected signs of age and mechanical fatigue. While the vehicle has a consistent record of passing, the emergence of brake disc and wheel bearing advisories over the last two years suggests that the car is entering a phase where multiple wear-and-tear components will require simultaneous attention to maintain roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 194,363 miles over sixteen years, this vehicle has averaged approximately 12,148 miles per annum. This is considered high usage for a luxury saloon of this vintage. Such high mileage implies significant cumulative stress on the drivetrain, engine internals, and chassis components. Prospective buyers should be aware that at nearly 200,000 miles, the vehicle is well beyond the typical lifespan of many original consumables, and the risk of failure for high-stress items such as the turbocharger, fuel injectors, or automatic transmission components is proportionally increased. Regarding the specific advisories, the nearside front wheel bearing play is a critical point for inspection. During a test drive, listen for a rhythmic humming or droning noise that increases in pitch with speed or changes tone when steering the vehicle from side to side. The previous advisories regarding pitted and scored rear brake discs indicate that the braking system is degrading. Check for brake shudder through the pedal during deceleration and inspect the disc surfaces for deep grooves or heavy oxidation, as these will likely require replacement soon to ensure optimal stopping power and prevent caliper binding. Given the high mileage, a comprehensive physical inspection of the suspension is essential. Check for perished rubber suspension bushes and leaking shock absorbers, which are common failure points on high-mileage Mercedes-Benz models. Verify the service history to ensure that the automatic transmission fluid and differential oils have been changed at appropriate intervals, as neglect in these areas can lead to catastrophic drivetrain failure. Finally, examine the underbody for structural corrosion and ensure the engine oil is clean and free of sludge, as long-term high-mileage operation demands strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent premature engine wear.