2008 Mercedes C 2.1L Diesel · FV58 OEX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of deteriorating suspension and braking component degradation. While it passed the most recent April 2026 test at 89,700 miles, it had failed just five days prior. This failure highlighted significant mechanical issues, including a fractured nearside front coil spring and excessively worn front ball joints on both sides. The transition from a multi-point failure to a pass indicates that the owner is addressing critical faults only when forced by the MOT tester, rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. At 18 years old, the recorded mileage of 89,700 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per year. The data shows consistent but infrequent usage, with roughly 4,000 miles driven between the March 2025 and April 2026 tests. However, this low mileage correlates with the age-related wear seen in the record. The recurring presence of corroded brake pipes and perished rubber dust covers suggests the vehicle may sit stationary for long periods, allowing environmental corrosion and rubber degradation to accelerate despite the low mechanical mileage. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension geometry, as the history shows a repeated failure of ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages between 2023 and 2026. The braking system requires close attention; the tester flagged surface corrosion on brake pipes and hoses in 2024 and 2025, indicating that the hydraulic lines are reaching the end of their functional life and may require replacement to prevent future leaks. Additionally, the windscreen has been noted as damaged since 2024, and the buyer should verify that the crack has not propagated to compromise the structural integrity of the glass.