2005 Mercedes-Benz C 1.8L Petrol · FY05 EWM

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 7 April 2026 with no recorded defects, indicating a clean bill of health at 102,652 miles. The maintenance trend shows a significant improvement following a comprehensive failure in March 2025. While the 2025 failure identified multiple failures across the steering, suspension, and exhaust systems, the subsequent pass suggests these critical items were rectified. The absence of advisories in the most recent test implies that the previous owner addressed the underlying mechanical neglect, moving the vehicle from a state of deterioration to a stable, roadworthy condition. With an average annual usage of approximately 4,888 miles, this Mercedes has seen light, consistent use over its twenty-one-year lifespan. The mileage progression is steady, showing no evidence of long-term storage or excessive high-speed commuting. The jump from 85,880 miles in March 2023 to the current 102,652 miles confirms the car remains in active service rather than sitting idle, which is generally beneficial for seals, gaskets, and fluid circulation in older engines. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the areas previously flagged for wear, specifically the front suspension bushes and track rod ends. Although the 2025 failure items were cleared, these components are prone to recurring play on this chassis and warrant a check for any residual movement or knocking during a test drive. Inspect the central exhaust section for signs of recent repair quality to ensure the previous leak was resolved permanently rather than patched. Finally, verify the condition of the brake pads, as the 2024 test noted thinning, and check the wheel bearings for any noise, as the nearside front unit previously exhibited play.