2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1.6L Petrol · EO59 BUW

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class presents a clean bill of health at its most recent MOT on 20 February 2026, recording zero defects at 42,527 miles. That result marks a clear improvement over earlier years, shifting the maintenance trend from resolving to stable. The vehicle had previously failed on corroded brake pipes in October 2022, but subsequent tests in 2024 and 2026 both passed without advisories, indicating that the corrosion issue was addressed and has not returned. The mileage profile is notably low for a 2009 vehicle, averaging roughly 2,500 miles per year over seventeen years. Between October 2022 at 35,457 miles and March 2025 at 38,918 miles, the car covered just 3,461 miles in over two years, suggesting prolonged periods of limited use. The annual increments between 2024 and 2025 and again between 2025 and early 2026 remain modest, reinforcing the pattern of light, infrequent driving rather than high-mileage commuting. Despite the clean recent record, the 2022 failure on corroded front and rear brake pipes, particularly around the nearside rear arch area, warrants a close physical inspection. Under trays fitted at multiple tests have historically obscured components, so a buyer should request their removal to examine the underside directly. Pay particular attention to the condition of brake lines, pipe unions, and the inner wing arches for any recurrence of corrosion or fresh surface rust. Suspension bushes and coil springs should also be checked, as low-mileage vehicles that stand for extended periods can develop perished rubber and seized components regardless of recorded mileage. The 2021 advisory on inner rear tyre wear points to possible alignment or suspension geometry issues that may have been corrected since, but a fresh tyre inspection and four-wheel alignment check remain sensible precautions. Given the age of the vehicle, rubber hoses, coolant system components, and exhaust mounts deserve scrutiny, as time rather than mileage is the primary enemy of these parts. Overall, the MOT record is reassuring, but the combination of low annual use and historical corrosion means a hands-on inspection underneath is essential before purchase.