2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 1.6L Petrol · CE02 ALE

The vehicle most recently presented for DVSA roadworthiness testing on 20 February 2026 and was issued a clean PASS certificate with no advisories or defects recorded, representing the most favourable possible outcome for that test. Reviewing the full five-year MOT history, the CLA has passed every annual examination without a single failure or refusal, and the only recorded advisory across this period was an offside rear brake pad inner-pad wear notice issued on 19 February 2025. Because that advisory was not repeated at the subsequent 2026 test, it can reasonably be inferred that the wear item was addressed through replacement or rectification in the intervening twelve months. The overall maintenance trend therefore appears stable and conscientious, with the vehicle maintaining roadworthy status consistently throughout the recorded period and no escalating pattern of recurring component deterioration. With an indicated 59,569 miles over approximately twelve years, the recorded annual mileage averages around 4,964 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and suggests either light private use, predominantly urban driving with limited long-distance work, or extended periods of standing between uses. Such low annual mileage is mechanically advantageous in terms of wear on the engine internals, clutch, drivetrain and major braking components, but it introduces specific risks associated with infrequent operation. Standing periods can allow moisture to accumulate within the engine oil and exhaust system, lead to brake disc surface corrosion and potential caliper seizure, and contribute to premature ageing of rubber components that would normally be kept supple through regular thermal cycling. The MOT records themselves show broadly consistent annual test dates with mileage gaps that appear proportionate, indicating no sudden or unusual accumulations that would suggest a tampered odometer or rapid high-mileage use. Given the clean test record and the low average usage, a prospective buyer should focus on time-related degradation rather than distance-related wear. Tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall perishing and cracking from age, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar years regardless of tread depth, and the production date codes on the sidewalls should be checked to confirm they are not excessively old. Brake discs should be examined for visible corrosion, lipping, or any signs that the calipers have been binding, which can manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven braking response, or hot wheels after short journeys. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are sensitive to voltage irregularities and a weak battery can produce a cascade of electronic warning messages. All fluid services should be verified, including engine oil and filter, brake fluid (which is hygroscopic and typically requires renewal every two years regardless of mileage), coolant, and the automatic transmission fluid if applicable, with evidence sought through service book stamps or independent specialist invoices. During a physical inspection and test drive, particular attention should be paid to the suspension system, listening for any clonks or knocks from the front lower wishbones, anti-roll bar bushes, and rear coil spring seats, all of which are common wear areas on the CLA platform and may not have been exercised sufficiently given the low annual mileage. The diesel or petrol variant, if confirmed, should be started from cold to observe ease of ignition, smoke from the exhaust, and any unusual idle vibration. On the road, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, where fitted, should be evaluated for smoothness during low-speed manoeuvres and parking, as these units can exhibit shudder or hesitation if the clutch packs or mechatronic unit have been affected by infrequent use. Steering should be checked for any deviation under braking, which could indicate warped discs, and the vehicle should be scanned for any pending fault codes using a Mercedes-Benz compatible diagnostic tool, as electronic control unit faults do not form part of the standard MOT check but are highly relevant to overall mechanical condition.