2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 5.4L Petrol · DG55 YFR

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy certificate, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of significant mechanical neglect and reactive repairing. While it passed the April 2026 test at 147,489 miles, this followed a comprehensive failure just one month prior at 147,442 miles. The list of failures in March 2026, including fractured springs and structural weld repairs, suggests the car is only serviced when forced by legal testing standards rather than through a preventative maintenance schedule. At 147,489 miles over 21 years, the CLK averages approximately 7,000 miles per year, which is consistent with a low-mileage grand tourer. However, the mileage gap between February 2024 and March 2025 shows a sudden spike of over 7,000 miles in just 13 months. This burst of use correlates with the rapid degradation of suspension components, such as the ball joints and control arms that were flagged for failure during the 2025 and 2026 inspections. A buyer must scrutinise the structural integrity of the chassis, as the most recent record notes weld repairs on both the rear and offside front road wheels. These repairs often indicate deep-seated corrosion that has compromised the original metalwork. The braking system shows a chronic history of corrosion, with brake pipes flagged across the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tests, suggesting the hydraulic lines are nearing the end of life and prone to sudden failure. Physical inspection should also focus on the steering and suspension, as the steering rack inner joints have shown play for multiple years without resolution. The recurring presence of oil and gear leaks around the gearbox and engine suggests that aging seals are not being addressed. Given the fractured coil springs and worn brake components noted in the latest failure, the vehicle requires immediate mechanical investment to ensure it remains safe for continued use.