2008 Mercedes CLK 2.1L Diesel · AE08 SHU

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of deferred attention regarding suspension and braking components. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 154,524 miles identified multiple issues including deteriorated front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers and thin rear brake pads, the car ultimately passed. The recurring nature of these faults across the last three years suggests that the owner tends to address components only when they reach a point of inspection failure rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 154,524 miles, this 18-year-old Mercedes has averaged approximately 8,585 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for its age. The data shows steady mileage accumulation, with roughly 9,000 miles covered between September 2024 and October 2025, and another 13,600 miles between September 2023 and 2024. This consistent use indicates the vehicle is not sitting idle for long periods, which explains the progressive wear seen on rubber bushes and metal suspension components noted in the records. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension, as the record shows flagged worn front suspension arm bushes in 2023 and slight wheel bearing play reported in 2024. The braking system is another clear area of concern with pitted and scored discs on all four wheels noted in 2023 and thin pads appearing again in 2025. Furthermore, the mention of general underbody rust in 2023 and a previously corroded offside front coil spring in 2022 necessitates a close look at the structural integrity of the chassis to ensure corrosion has not progressed beyond surface level.