2009 Mercedes CLK 2.1L Diesel · GK09 YKW

The Mercedes CLK has maintained a stable roadworthiness record in recent years, with the January 2026 MOT at 106,689 miles passing despite two critical corrosion-related advisories on the rear brake pipes—both covered in grease or other contaminants. While the parking brake pedal anti-slip rubber was noted as missing but deemed compliant by the time of the test, this suggests a component that has either been overlooked or allowed to degrade without replacement. The absence of defects in the three preceding MOTs (2025, 2024, and 2022) indicates that major mechanical or structural issues have not emerged, though the recurring corrosion on the brake pipes is a concerning trend. These pipes are critical for hydraulic function; if left unaddressed, they could lead to fluid leakage or failure, posing a serious safety risk. The vehicle’s mileage accumulation—approximately 6,276 miles per year—aligns with typical usage for its age, suggesting it has not been subjected to excessive wear from high annual distances. The most recent 2,696 miles (from January 2025 to January 2026) were covered without defects, reinforcing that the car is currently operating within expected parameters. However, the January 2023 test revealed a slightly damaged or perishing nearside front outer tyre sidewall, which was not repeated in later tests, implying either a one-off incident or a replacement that resolved the issue. The clean MOTs in 2024 and 2025 further support that, beyond the brake pipe corrosion, no other systemic failures have occurred. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be the rear brake system, particularly the condition of the corroded brake pipes and associated fittings. These should be visually inspected for further deterioration, leaks, or signs of past repairs. The parking brake pedal’s missing anti-slip rubber, while not a fail item, may indicate neglect in basic maintenance—check the parking brake mechanism for smooth operation and wear. The tyre sidewall damage in 2023, though not repeated, suggests the vehicle may have encountered rough roads or been subjected to underinflation; a thorough inspection of all tyres for cracking, uneven wear, or age-related degradation is essential. Given the car’s age and the corrosion advisories, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Mercedes specialist would be prudent to assess hidden wear in suspension components, such as bushes or coil springs, which are not routinely checked during MOTs.