2002 Mercedes-Benz C 2.0L Petrol · AX02 AVM

The most recent MOT test on this Mercedes-Benz C occurred over three years ago, on 30 June 2022, with the vehicle failing without recorded defects—a pattern that persisted through two retests on the same day. The last successful pass was in July 2021, suggesting the vehicle has not undergone a formal roadworthiness inspection since then. This extended period without testing raises immediate concerns about undocumented wear, particularly in high-wear areas like suspension components, brake systems, and exhaust emissions, which are not covered by the MOT’s advisory-only system. The absence of any recorded defects in the last three tests does not imply absence of issues; rather, it suggests either a lack of thorough inspection or that problems were not severe enough to trigger MOT failures, which could mask serious underlying concerns. The recorded mileage of 147,370 miles over 24 years equates to an average of approximately 6,140 miles per year, a rate consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. However, the MOT history is unusually sparse, with only five entries spanning nearly a decade, including a notable gap of 18 months between the 2021 and 2022 tests. Such irregularity often indicates inconsistent maintenance, potentially leaving critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers—unmonitored for prolonged periods. The lack of advisories or defects in the last three tests does not negate the need for a professional inspection, as the MOT’s failure criteria are conservative and may not capture all safety-critical failures. Given the extended period without testing, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which are prone to degradation over 24 years. The brake system warrants close examination, including caliper binding, disc thickness, and pad wear, as these components are not always flagged in MOT tests unless they reach critical failure points. Structural integrity should also be assessed for corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, subframes, and exhaust mounts, where rust can compromise safety without immediate visual evidence. The absence of emissions-related failures does not preclude issues with the catalytic converter or exhaust system, which may require smoke testing or visual confirmation of leaks. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a full service history—including service intervals and parts replacements—would provide further clarity on its long-term care.