2012 Mercedes-Benz C 3.5L Petrol · B1 LEB

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-04-28, passing with a minor advisory on the offside rear parking brake reading low. However, the maintenance trend is worsening — corrosion in brake pipes has persisted and spread across multiple corners over the past four years, with no sign of resolution or preventative action. The recurring nature of these issues, particularly the corrosion covered in grease or other material, suggests a chronic lack of attention to brake system integrity, which could escalate into a safety-critical failure if left unaddressed. Mileage progression is consistent with the vehicle’s age, averaging approximately 6,600 miles per year over 14 years, with no significant gaps or sudden spikes. The 2022 to 2026 tests show a steady climb from 72,740 to 92,425 miles, indicating regular use without long-term storage or neglect. The absence of major mileage jumps or long periods without MOTs suggests the vehicle has been kept on the road, though the maintenance record reveals a pattern of deferred or overlooked component wear rather than proactive servicing. Buyers should inspect the brake system in detail, especially the rear and front inner brake pipes, which have been flagged for corrosion in every MOT since 2022. The presence of grease or foreign material covering the pipes indicates either improper repair or chronic leakage, which may compromise hydraulic integrity. Suspension components, particularly the nearside front shock absorbers, have shown oil misting since 2022 — a sign of internal wear that may affect ride quality and handling. Structural corrosion around the brake lines should be assessed for potential rust-through or compromised metal integrity, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture. The parking brake issues, while minor in the latest test, have been present since 2023 and may indicate binding calipers or worn cables. A thorough mechanical inspection should include brake fluid condition, caliper movement, and parking brake cable tension. Given the history, the vehicle is not inherently unsafe, but it carries a higher risk of future failure in critical systems unless the underlying corrosion and wear are addressed before purchase.