2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA 1.3L Petrol · AL53 RTT

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA presents a reassuring official MOT profile, with the most recent test on 10 November 2025 resulting in a clean pass and no advisories or defects recorded. The previous test on 15 November 2024 also concluded with a pass and no noted issues, indicating that the vehicle has been maintained to a satisfactory standard at the point of inspection on both occasions. While a clean MOT history does not constitute a guarantee of overall mechanical condition, the absence of recurring advisories relating to braking components, suspension wear, or corrosion suggests that the car has not yet developed any significant structural or safety-related concerns that would have been flagged under DVSA testing criteria. The consistent pass results, combined with the lack of any advisory deterioration between tests, point towards a stable maintenance trend at the time of the most recent assessment, which is a positive indicator for any prospective buyer. In terms of usage, the recorded mileage of 66,966 against a four-year age equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 16,742 miles, which is notably higher than the national average. Such consistent and intensive use typically accelerates wear on consumable items, including brake pads and discs, tyres, suspension bushes, and drivetrain components. The mileage progression between the two recorded MOT tests shows a substantial accumulation of around 20,000 miles within a single year, reinforcing the impression of a vehicle that has been utilised frequently, possibly for motorway commuting or commercial-style use. Higher mileage examples demand closer scrutiny of service history, as the engine, transmission, and braking system will have endured greater thermal and mechanical stress than a lower-mileage counterpart, and components such as the timing chain, turbocharger, and dual-clutch gearbox should be considered as parts approaching the mid-point of their expected service life. Given the clean MOT record and the absence of any documented advisories, the buyer should concentrate their evaluation on areas that may not be fully captured during a standard roadworthiness test. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the tyres, as high-mileage vehicles often exhibit accelerated shoulder wear or uneven tread patterns indicative of alignment or suspension irregularities, and the sidewalls should be examined for any cracking or perishing consistent with age. The brake discs should be inspected for lipping or surface corrosion, and the calipers should be checked for signs of binding or uneven pad wear, as frequent stop-start use can accelerate these issues. A thorough test drive should include assessment of the transmission for any juddering or hesitation during gear changes, particularly on inclines, as well as listening for any suspension knocks or clonks over uneven road surfaces, which may suggest wear to the control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, or coil spring seats. Additionally, age and calendar-based servicing items warrant close inspection regardless of the favourable MOT history. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles are particularly sensitive to voltage fluctuations and often require battery registration via diagnostic equipment following replacement. Brake fluid and coolant should be assessed for their service intervals, with brake fluid ideally renewed every two years due to its hygroscopic nature, and the coolant system inspected for any signs of deterioration or leaks. The air conditioning system, which is frequently overlooked, should be tested for effective cooling performance, as compressor and condenser issues are common in vehicles of this age. Finally, a comprehensive review of the service book and any digital service records is strongly recommended to verify that intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and spark plugs have been adhered to, as a well-documented history will provide further reassurance that this high-mileage CLA has been cared for appropriately throughout its life.