2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1.8L Petrol · FN12 AAU

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 9 December 2025, resulted in an initial failure due to a Major defect recorded against the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which was deemed excessively worn, alongside recurring minor advisories on both sides of the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers. The vehicle subsequently passed on the same date once the worn ball joint had presumably been addressed, though the deteriorated dust covers remained on record. Looking at the broader test history, a clear and consistent pattern of front suspension wear has been developing over several years, beginning with advisories on suspension arm pins and bushes in October 2022, progressing to inner-edge tyre wear and front brake disc wear advisories in January 2024, and culminating in the recent major ball joint failure. This indicates a worsening trend in the front suspension and steering components, which is a concern for a prospective buyer even though the vehicle is currently roadworthy. With a recorded mileage of 53,961 miles over approximately fourteen years, the vehicle has averaged around 3,854 miles per year, which is significantly below typical usage for a car of this age and type. Such low annual mileage often suggests periods of standing or limited use, which can be as mechanically consequential as high mileage in certain respects. Long periods of inactivity can lead to corrosion of brake discs, binding or seized brake calipers, deterioration of rubber components such as bushes and seals, and degradation of fluids simply through age rather than use. Conversely, the low mileage means major drivetrain items such as the engine, transmission, and clutch are unlikely to be heavily worn, though they will still be subject to calendar-based degradation of oils, coolant, and other service items. Given the recurring front suspension issues identified across the MOT history, particular attention should be paid to the condition of all front suspension components during a physical inspection. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers have been flagged as severely deteriorated in three consecutive tests, and while split boots themselves are not failures, they allow water and grit ingress that rapidly accelerates wear of the ball joint beneath. It would be prudent to inspect the offside lower suspension arm ball joint that was the subject of the recent major defect, ensuring the repair was carried out professionally and that surrounding components such as the track rod ends, wishbone bushes, and drop links are also in sound condition. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, pay attention to vague or wandering steering, and watch for uneven or premature tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges as previously recorded. The brake discs noted as worn in 2024 should also be checked for lipping, scoring, or any evidence of corrosion jacking if the vehicle has been standing between uses. Beyond the documented suspension concerns, a low-mileage 2012 Mercedes-Benz of this vintage warrants a broader age-related inspection. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and a 2012-dated tyre is well past its recommended service life. The 12V battery should be tested for state of health, as Mercedes electrical systems are sensitive to voltage drops and a weak battery can produce a cascade of warning lights. Brake calipers on a standing vehicle are prone to seizing, so each wheel should be checked for free rotation and even pad wear. Service history verification is essential, particularly evidence of recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil, all of which degrade on a time basis rather than purely by mileage. Finally, given the vehicle's age, a thorough inspection for corrosion in common Mercedes areas such as the bonnet edges, wheel arches, and underbody should be undertaken, as structural integrity remains a primary safety and value consideration.