2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA 1.6L Petrol · FD13 NEO

The most recent MOT history for this 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA, tested just three months ago on 2026-04-02, presents an unusual but technically clean record. The vehicle passed the test without any defects, despite the DVSA system registering both a pass and a fail at the same mileage—an administrative anomaly rather than a mechanical issue. The preceding tests from 2025, 2024, and 2023 all passed without advisories or failures, indicating a stable maintenance pattern over the past three years. No recurring faults or advisory notes suggest ongoing neglect or deferred repairs, though the lack of advisories also means no proactive maintenance records (such as brake pad thickness or suspension bush wear) are documented. The mileage progression of approximately 6,700 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests—covering 5,816 miles in 12 months—is slightly higher than the average. The most notable irregularity is the identical mileage (87,613) for the April 2026 tests, which implies either a reset or an undocumented rollback, a practice that warrants verification. Otherwise, the steady accumulation suggests consistent driving habits without prolonged periods of inactivity, which could otherwise accelerate wear on components like seals or fluids. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on high-wear items not routinely recorded in MOTs. The suspension—particularly rear coil springs and bushes—should be examined for uneven sagging or excessive play, as Mercedes-Benz CLAs are prone to bush deterioration around 100,000 miles. Brake systems, though not failed, may benefit from a check for uneven pad wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle exhibits uneven braking. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and sills, is critical given the vehicle’s age, as hidden rust can compromise structural integrity. Finally, the dual April 2026 tests raise suspicion about odometer accuracy, so cross-referencing service records or maintenance logs for consistency would be prudent.