2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA 1.6L Petrol · B22 PAG

A developing wear pattern is now evident on the braking system of this 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA, with the most recent MOT on 2026-05-21 recording advisories on both the front brake discs (worn, pitted, or scored but not seriously weakened) and the rear brake pads (wearing thin). This builds on an otherwise unblemished test history dating back to its first recorded MOT in 2022, where minor advisories for an engine oil leak and a run-flat tyre were noted, followed by clean passes in 2023 (aside from tyre wear advisories) and 2024. The 2025 test reiterated the engine oil leak advisory, and the 2026 test shows a clear escalation from purely informational items to mechanical wear on items that directly affect stopping performance and safety margins. The progression from advisories on fluid leaks and tyre condition to genuine brake component wear is a predictable mechanical trajectory for a vehicle of this age and mileage reaching the point where its original consumables require replacement. With 63,111 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has covered around 7,889 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a car of its age. There are no significant gaps in the testing record or unexplained jumps in mileage between annual tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in consistent use rather than subject to long stationary periods that could affect battery condition, brake disc corrosion, or fluid degradation through lack of circulation. The steady, modest accumulation rate means wear on major mechanical items such as the clutch, drivetrain, and suspension linkages is likely proportionate to the mileage, though the recent advisory pattern suggests the vehicle is now entering the phase of its life where mid-life consumable replacement becomes a routine ownership cost. For a prospective buyer, the front brake discs and rear brake pads flagged on the 2026 test should be treated as imminent replacement items rather than distant concerns. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or thumping from the front wheels under braking, as the pitted and scored condition of the discs will typically produce a pulsation through the brake pedal or steering wheel under firm pedal pressure. The rear pads wearing thin may produce a squeal or squeak at low speeds, and any warning lights on the dashboard relating to brake pad wear should be investigated immediately. Given that the brake discs are already pitted, replacing only the pads may not provide optimal braking feel; resurfacing or replacement of the front discs is likely to be advisable to prevent premature wear of the new pads and to restore a solid pedal feel. The recurring engine oil leak advisory, noted in both 2022 and 2025, warrants close physical inspection. On the test drive, listen for any ticking or tapping from the engine bay that could indicate oil starvation, and check under the vehicle after it has been parked for evidence of fresh drips on the driveway or ground. Common leak sources on this generation of Mercedes-Benz CLA engines include the valve cover gasket, the oil filter housing, and the timing cover, all of which are repairable but should be addressed before the leak progresses from "not excessive" to a level that risks engine damage or an MOT failure. Additionally, given the tyre wear advisories on the nearside front and offside rear in 2023, a four-wheel alignment check would be prudent to rule out any tracking or suspension geometry issue causing uneven tyre consumption, particularly as worn suspension components can accelerate both tyre and brake wear.