2016 Mercedes-Benz C 2.0L Hybrid electric · EO16 JYN

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-18 resulted in a failure, marking a clear deterioration in roadworthiness after a clean pass in 2024. The failure was not isolated—it revealed critical suspension issues, including an insecure near-side front track rod end dust cover and excessive play in the wheel bearing, both of which directly compromise steering stability and wheel alignment. The preceding 2023 and 2022 tests also highlighted recurring concerns: thin rear brake pads and tyres worn to the legal limit, suggesting a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than random failures. While the 2025 failure was addressed before the November pass, the underlying problems indicate the vehicle has not received consistent, professional attention to its suspension and braking systems. The recorded mileage of 92,842 miles over ten years reflects an average of roughly 9,284 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—just 8,586 miles—contrasts sharply with the larger jumps in earlier years, such as the 12,814 miles between the 2022 and 2023 tests. This suggests the vehicle may have been driven more frequently in recent years, potentially accelerating wear on components like suspension and brakes. The absence of any MOT tests between 2022 and 2023 also raises questions about whether the vehicle was off the road for an extended period, which could have allowed corrosion or mechanical degradation to develop unchecked. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension, particularly the track rod ends and wheel bearings, as the 2025 failure indicates these components are compromised. The insecure dust cover on the track rod end is a red flag for dirt ingress, which can accelerate wear and binding, while the excessive wheel bearing play poses a risk of wheel detachment. The braking system warrants immediate scrutiny—rear brake pads have worn thin in previous tests, and the binding calipers or warped discs could now be present. Additionally, the history of tyres reaching the legal limit suggests the current tyres may be nearing their limits, and their condition should be checked for uneven wear or edge damage. Structural integrity, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounts, should also be examined for signs of corrosion or fatigue, as these areas are often overlooked but critical for long-term safety.