2009 Mercedes A-Class 1.5L Petrol · CE09 CAU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the most recent inspection indicates a lapse in proactive maintenance. While the car passed its MOT in April 2026 at 78,143 miles, it failed the test just weeks prior due to critical safety defects. The tester identified a nearside front tyre with exposed cords and an offside front tyre worn to the legal limit. This represents a shift from the clean records seen in the previous three years, suggesting that basic consumable upkeep was neglected until the annual test forced action. The mileage profile is notably low for a 17-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,600 miles per year. Between March 2023 and April 2024, the car covered 13,114 miles, showing a period of higher usage. However, the jump of 6,827 miles between March 2025 and April 2026 shows the vehicle remains infrequently driven. While low mileage reduces wear on the drivetrain, it often leads to the degradation of rubber components and fluid seals, which aligns with the age-related issues found in the latest test results. A buyer must inspect the rear braking system specifically, as the April 2026 test flagged deteriorated nearside and offside rear brake hoses. Although these were recorded as advisories after the initial failure, the rubber is clearly cracking and will eventually lead to a pressure leak if not replaced. Given the vehicle's age and low mileage, a physical inspection should also check for corrosion on the suspension arches and underbody, as these are common failure points for this era of Mercedes A-Class that do not always appear on a standard MOT until they become structural.