2014 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · BO04 HOL

The vehicle's most recent MOT outcome on 2026-02-11 was a PASS, recorded the same day as a prior FAIL entry, which strongly suggests an immediate retest was carried out after the initial failure. Despite the dual entries on that date, both the pass and the failure show no advisories or defects recorded on the DVSA system. Reviewing the broader test history, the vehicle has passed its MOT on 2024-02-16, 2025-02-05, and 2026-02-11, with the only failure being the retest situation on 2026-02-11. Because the failure carried no recorded defects and was immediately followed by a pass on the same day, it is reasonable to interpret this as a minor item that was rectified in situ and re-tested within the allowable window. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable and consistent, with no recurring defect patterns emerging from the official record. The recorded mileage of 100,763 miles over a twelve-year service life equates to an annual usage of approximately 8,397 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a privately owned executive saloon of this era. There are no obvious extended gaps in usage between successive MOT tests, with the recorded mileages progressing year on year, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular rather than sporadic use. This level of annual mileage is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as it implies steady warm-up cycles, regular fluid circulation through the drivetrain, and consistent exercising of suspension and brake components, all of which help prevent the seizing and perishing issues that can afflict low-mileage or stored vehicles. That said, any C-Class approaching the 100,000-mile threshold should be considered entering the upper-middle section of its service life, where certain wear items become more probable. Given the clean MOT history and no recorded advisories, the absence of flagged items is reassuring, but a prospective buyer should still carry out several physical inspections relevant to a twelve-year-old Mercedes-Benz. Externally, all four tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber deteriorates with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres older than five years should be replaced on principle. Brake discs, particularly on a vehicle that may have had periods of lighter use, should be inspected for lip corrosion and the calipers for any signs of binding, which can manifest as uneven pad wear or a pulling sensation under braking. The 12V battery should be tested for state of health, as Mercedes auxiliary and primary batteries of this vintage are prone to silent discharge, and a failing battery can produce a wide range of seemingly unrelated electrical faults. Under the bonnet, the vehicle should be inspected for any evidence of oil or coolant leaks from the engine, particularly around the front sprocket area and the coolant pipework, both known wear points on this generation of C-Class. The brake fluid and coolant should be checked for age-related degradation, with Mercedes generally recommending fluid changes roughly every two years regardless of mileage, so verifying service history stamps for these items is worthwhile. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would suggest worn control arm bushes or drop links, and pay attention to any vibration through the steering wheel, which could indicate worn front suspension components or warped brake discs. Finally, request evidence of cambelt or timing chain service intervals if applicable to the engine variant, as neglecting this on a high-mileage direct-injection petrol or diesel can result in catastrophic engine damage.