2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA 2.1L Diesel · GP66 EHO

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA presents a broadly stable maintenance profile heading into mid-2026, though the most recent MOT on 29 October 2025 at 74,981 miles flagged a notable concern. Both nearside and offside front tyres were worn close to the legal limit on both inner and outer edges, indicating uneven wear likely caused by suspension misalignment or aggressive front-end geometry. The tester also noted underside covers obscuring the view of structural components, which limits confidence in the condition of subframe, sill, and suspension mounting points beneath. Despite these advisories, the vehicle passed, suggesting no immediate structural or mechanical failure, but the front tyre wear pattern warrants prompt investigation. Mileage accumulation sits at a steady average of roughly 7,500 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The record shows a consistent annual test pattern from November 2022 through October 2025, with no significant gaps in testing that might suggest long-term storage or missed MOTs. The mileage progression from 64,656 miles in November 2022 to 74,981 miles in October 2025 reflects regular use across three years, with no sudden spikes. The only anomaly is the November 2023 failure at 67,359 miles for a supplementary restraint system warning lamp fault, which was resolved before the retest at 67,406 miles just thirteen days later. That fault appears isolated and was rectified promptly. A prospective buyer should prioritise a close inspection of the front suspension geometry and steering components. Edge wear on both front tyres simultaneously points toward toe misalignment or worn suspension bushes, common on vehicles of this age and mileage. The rear tyres were flagged in November 2022 for similar wear, suggesting alignment issues may have persisted intermittently. A four-wheel alignment check and visual inspection of front lower arms, track rod ends, and anti-roll bar links would be prudent before purchase. The underside covers noted in the October 2025 test remain a concern. These panels can conceal corrosion on sills, subframe mounts, and brake lines, particularly on a ten-year-old vehicle. A buyer should request removal of these covers or have the car inspected on a ramp to assess structural integrity and check for rust, especially around the front suspension towers and rear arch seams. Brake condition should also be verified, as uneven tyre wear can sometimes correlate with binding calipers or sticking handbrake mechanisms, though no brake defects were formally recorded.