2015 Mercedes-Benz C 1.6L Diesel · CK65 TFN

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C presents a mixed roadworthiness picture that oscillates between solid passes and persistent minor advisories, with the most recent MOT on 2026-04-02 recording a pass despite a cluster of prior warnings. Between 2023 and 2026 the vehicle experienced two failed tests—one in early 2023 involving the rear seat belt buckle, windshield washer malfunction, and significant engine oil leakage—and another in mid-2022 where the rear prop shaft flexible coupling proved excessively deteriorated. The earlier years showed generally clean records with no major failures, suggesting intermittent rather than chronic problems. The pattern indicates a car that has not deteriorated catastrophically but requires attention to a handful of recurring weak points across the chassis, drivetrain, and exterior systems. The vehicle's mileage of 156,027 miles accumulated over approximately eleven years translates to roughly 14,184 miles per year, a rate that is substantially higher than typical for its age and raises questions about the underlying usage profile. The gap between the 2022 May failed test and the subsequent 2023 March pass represents just three months of accumulated distance before the next failure, implying continuous or near-continuous operation throughout much of the period. While the late-career years 2024 through 2026 have been clean, the sustained high-volume usage evident in the mileage figures places considerable stress on consumables such as brake pads, discs, suspension bushings, and the engine oil system. The combination of elevated annual mileage and a history of multiple distinct advices suggests that parts replacement may already be due on several subsystems, particularly given the reported oil leakage and brake disc wear. The front registration plate has been flagged as insecure on every test since at least 2023, indicating potential structural weakness in the mounting point that could lead to detachment under lateral forces or when the vehicle is parked in adverse conditions. The outer sidewall of the offside front tyre shows damage rated at level 5.2.3(d)(ii), which typically manifests as uneven wear patterns or surface irregularities that require visual confirmation during a test drive, especially when navigating corners at speed. Both front and rear brake discs are recorded as worn and pitted or scored, a condition that often produces a spongy pedal feel or audible knocking sounds during braking; the severity of this wear warrants verification of pad thickness and rotor condition. The rear seat belt buckle failing to function properly is a critical safety concern that should be tested by attempting to fasten and release the belt at each seat position. Additionally, the windshield washer system has repeatedly been non-functional, which can impair visibility in rain, and an excessive oil leak from the engine requires visual inspection of the sump area and undercarriage for fresh discharge. Finally, the rear prop shaft flexible coupling deterioration noted in 2022 remains a latent risk that could compromise axle rotation and transmission alignment if left unaddressed. For a prospective buyer, the specific components requiring immediate attention during a test drive include confirming the security of the front registration plate by checking for movement when the vehicle is stationary and while in motion, inspecting both front and rear brake discs for scoring or thinning that would affect stopping performance, listening for any binding or knocking from the brake calipers and pistons, and performing a full brake pedal assessment including pedal travel and response consistency. The seat belt buckle should be manually operated at each passenger position to verify complete latch engagement and release mechanism functionality. Visually trace the windshield washer pump operation and confirm adequate spray output even on a shallow incline. Locate the engine oil collection tray and look for persistent oil residue or drips onto the surrounding ground, paying particular attention to areas near the valve cover and oil pan. Lastly, examine the rear subframe and flex couplings for signs of rust penetration, cracking, or excessive play that could manifest as clunking or pulling during acceleration or cornering. Addressing these flagged items before purchase will help determine whether the vehicle's remaining usable life is commensurate with its current condition.