2017 Mercedes-Benz C 4.0L Petrol · GD66 XEO

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-24 confirms the vehicle passed without defects at 61,125 miles, though the preceding failure in May 2025—just two days before passing—demonstrates a critical suspension issue that required immediate attention. The repeated failure on both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints (recorded at 56,315 miles) indicates a pattern of neglect or deferred maintenance rather than a one-off oversight. While the vehicle has since passed two consecutive tests without further suspension or structural faults, the 2023 record of wheel damage on the front nearside and offside rear suggests prior impact events that may have contributed to uneven wear. The absence of advisories in recent tests implies the ball joint replacement was either properly executed or the components have since stabilised, but this remains a high-risk area for future failure. The mileage progression of approximately 6,792 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the gap between the 2024 (48,760 miles) and 2025 (56,317 miles) tests—just over a year—shows no extended periods of inactivity. The rapid accumulation between 2023 (41,990 miles) and 2024 (48,760 miles) suggests consistent driving rather than prolonged storage, which could accelerate wear on suspension and braking components. Notably, the 2023 wheel damage hints at potential road debris strikes or minor collisions, though no further structural issues have been recorded since. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension components, particularly the lower control arm ball joints and their mounting points, as the 2025 failure indicates a history of failure in this area. The wheel damage from 2023 warrants checking for underlying frame or subframe corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounts, where impact forces could have weakened structural integrity. Brake systems appear stable based on recent tests, but the absence of advisory notes on caliper binding or uneven disc wear means a visual and functional check is essential. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be examined for leaks or corrosion, as these are common failure points in older Mercedes-Benz models and were not specifically tested in the most recent MOT.