2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA 2.1L Diesel · AF68 EEO

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 7 November 2025, resulted in a Pass with two advisories relating to the front tyres. Both the nearside and offside front tyres were noted as being worn close to the legal limit, exhibiting wear on the inner edge and cracking on the inner sidewall. Whilst the vehicle has passed its test, the appearance of tyre-related advisories after a sequence of clean passes indicates a developing wear pattern rather than a stable condition. Historically, the MOT record is very clean, with four consecutive passes between 2021 and 2024 carrying no advisories, so the sudden emergence of front axle tyre wear and sidewall cracking suggests that the suspension geometry or wheel alignment may have shifted, or that the tyres themselves have reached the end of their useful service life and require immediate replacement regardless of remaining tread depth. With 64,181 miles recorded on an 8 year old vehicle, the mileage equates to approximately 8,023 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and is neither disproportionately low nor high. The MOT history does not reveal any unusual gaps or rapid mileage accumulation between tests, with readings progressing at a consistent and predictable rate. From a mechanical standpoint, this level of usage is sufficient to keep consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and fluids in regular service, reducing the likelihood of issues associated with prolonged standing. However, certain age-related degradations remain probable, particularly around rubber components, interior trim, and ancillary electronics, which accumulate wear regardless of mileage covered. Given the recent front tyre advisories and the inner edge wear pattern, this should be the foremost inspection point during any physical inspection. Inner edge tyre wear on both sides of the same axle is typically symptomatic of either incorrect wheel alignment, typically excessive negative camber, or worn suspension components such as top mounts, control arm bushes, or wishbone bushes. A test drive should focus on detecting any suspension irregularity; listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front axle when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, and pay attention to any vagueness in steering response, drifting to one side, or vibration through the steering wheel at speed. Both front tyres will require replacement as a matter of priority, and the buyer should budget for a four-wheel alignment check to identify the underlying cause of the uneven wear. Beyond the advisory items, this 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA is now eight years old and warrants age-appropriate inspection of components that deteriorate with calendar time rather than mileage. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance and state of health, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are particularly sensitive to voltage fluctuations and battery condition, often triggering warning messages and electrical faults when the battery weakens. Brake discs should be examined for corrosion, scoring, or lipping, particularly if the vehicle has been subject to short journeys or periods of standing, which can cause binding calipers and uneven disc wear. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) should be assessed for age-related degradation; brake fluid is particularly hygroscopic and should be replaced every two to three years regardless of mileage to prevent corrosion within the ABS modulator and brake lines. Finally, inspect the underbody, exhaust mounting rubbers, and suspension bushes for any signs of corrosion or perishing consistent with the vehicle's age, and verify that the service history includes timely replacement of the timing chain, oil filter housing, and any known Mercedes-Benz specific issues such as the auxiliary belt tensioner or thermostat failure.