2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.1L Diesel · CU02 ALY

The most recent MOT, dated 11 December 2025, was passed but returned two advisories – a slight play in the off‑side front suspension arm ball joint and a noise from the non‑serviceable front shock absorber. Earlier in the record the vehicle suffered several major failures, notably recurring supplementary restraint system (SRS) warnings, an engine management light fault, a fractured near‑side front coil spring, and significantly worn rear brake discs in the 2023 failures. The 2024 MOT was clean, and the 2025 result shows the vehicle has been brought back into compliance, suggesting a modest improvement in recent maintenance, yet the lingering advisories indicate that some components remain marginal and may require attention soon. At 118 309 miles the car averages roughly 8 450 miles per year over its 14‑year life, which is typical for a low‑to‑moderate usage saloon. The mileage does not reveal any periods of prolonged inactivity that would raise concerns about tyre perishing or battery sulphation, but the relatively modest annual run‑off also means that wear items such as brake discs and suspension bushings may have been subjected to lower cumulative stress than a high‑mileage counterpart. Nevertheless, the presence of a fractured coil spring and heavily worn rear discs in the 2023 MOT indicates that certain wear items have progressed faster than the mileage alone would suggest, possibly due to harsh driving or insufficient servicing. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front suspension geometry. The advisory about ball‑joint play can manifest as a vague clunk or looseness when steering over bumps, especially on the off‑side. Have the ball joints and associated tie‑rod ends checked for excess movement and consider replacing them if the play exceeds the specification. The front shock absorber noise may be a sign of internal fluid leakage or worn damper bushings; listen for rattles or a “thudding” sensation when compressing the front wheel over a pothole. The near‑side coil spring that fractured in 2023 should be examined for any signs of fatigue or corrosion on the opposite spring, and a full spring set replacement is advisable to avoid a repeat failure. The rear brake discs were flagged as “significantly and obviously worn” and will need resurfacing or replacement, and the calipers should be inspected for uneven pad wear, sticking pistons, or corrosion that could cause brake shudder or reduced braking efficiency. The recurring SRS warning and engine MIL fault are electronic failures that can be intermittent; a diagnostic scan should be performed to identify fault codes, verify sensor operation, and confirm that the airbag control unit and engine management system are fully functional before committing to purchase. Beyond the specific defects, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or age‑related hardening, even if tread depth appears adequate, as tyres over ten years old can become unsafe regardless of mileage. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester; a battery of this age may have diminished cranking power, especially after periods of storage. Verify that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power‑steering fluid – have been changed within the manufacturer’s service intervals, as fluids degrade over time and can cause premature wear. Inspect the under‑body for rust, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, and check the exhaust system for corrosion or cracked hangers that could introduce vibration. A complete service book with stamps for oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service, and major component replacements will give confidence that the car has been maintained proactively despite the intermittent MOT failures.