2014 Mercedes-Benz C 1.6L Petrol · FX14 SSO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a significant decline in mechanical condition as mileage has increased. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 105,746 miles passed, the volume of advisories indicates a shift from preventative maintenance to reactive repairs. The transition from a clean record in 2025 to a list of suspension and braking faults in 2026 suggests the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related component fatigue and accelerated wear are requiring frequent attention. The mileage pattern is consistent, averaging approximately 8,800 miles per year, which is typical for a twelve-year-old vehicle. However, the rate of use has accelerated after the 60,000-mile mark. Between January 2023 and January 2026, the car covered nearly 45,000 miles, resulting in the first MOT failure of its history at 78,018 miles. This spike in usage correlates directly with the appearance of significant wear across the braking system and suspension components compared to the low-mile records seen in earlier years. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension geometry. The record repeatedly flags worn lower suspension arm bushes and front wheel bearings, which can compromise steering precision and cause uneven tyre wear. Furthermore, the presence of corroded front coil springs noted in 2026 is a structural concern that requires monitoring, as corrosion can lead to sudden failure. The 2024 failure regarding a corroded brake pipe also necessitates a visual check of the hydraulic lines to ensure no further degradation is occurring. The braking system requires close scrutiny due to a history of pitted and scored discs alongside thin pads noted across the 2024 and 2026 tests. The 2024 failure for low parking brake efficiency indicates that the handbrake mechanism may require adjustment or a service overhaul. Given the recent advisories for perished tyres and those worn to the legal limit in the latest test, the buyer should budget for immediate expenditure on a full set of tyres to ensure the vehicle meets safety standards.