2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 3.0L Diesel · HH60 ART

The most recent MOT test on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS recorded a failure on 2024-12-11, with the critical major defect being the offside front lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover failure , which has allowed dirt ingress and potential bearing wear. This follows a previous passing MOT on the same date, indicating a sudden deterioration in this component, which could suggest either a pre-existing issue exacerbated by wear or a manufacturing defect. The broader MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning brake pipe corrosion, brake disc wear, and tyre damage—though these have not escalated to major failures in recent years. The vehicle’s maintenance trend is thus characterised by intermittent but persistent minor issues rather than a clear improvement or worsening, and the owner should prioritise addressing the ball joint failure to prevent further mechanical degradation and potential road safety risks. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 121,134 miles over approximately 14 years represents an average annual usage of around 8,652 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on idle periods or maintenance schedules, so the absence of higher mileage could imply either light usage or prolonged stationary periods, both of which can accelerate corrosion in brake systems and fluid degradation. Standing for extended durations—especially in damp or salty environments—can exacerbate rust in brake pipes, caliper seals, and suspension components, as seen in the repeated advisories. Meanwhile, rapid mileage accumulation would have accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and tyres, but the current mileage suggests a more moderate wear profile unless recent high-mileage periods have not been fully documented. Given the recurring advisories on brake pipe corrosion and brake disc wear , the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. Start by checking for leaking brake fluid under the front arches, particularly around the ferrule areas, and listen for any hissing sounds or spongy pedal feel , which may indicate fluid loss or air contamination. Visually inspect the brake discs for pitting, scoring, or uneven wear , and check for binding calipers or corrosion around the brake caliper slides , which could cause shuddering or reduced braking efficiency. The front lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joint failure from the latest MOT failure should be addressed immediately, as it may lead to excessive body roll, uneven tyre wear, or suspension clunks , particularly on rough roads. A professional inspection of this linkage, including testing for play or excessive movement, is essential to prevent premature failure of the suspension components. For the broader vehicle condition, the buyer should also focus on tyre health , given the previous tyre damage advisories. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracks or perishing , which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related degradation, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Check the tread depth uniformly across the tyre faces, and look for uneven wear patterns , which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as prolonged idling or high mileage can accelerate rust in catalytic converters and mufflers. A quick visual check of the 12V battery and alternator connections is prudent, given the age of the vehicle, to ensure no standing corrosion or electrical inefficiencies have developed. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, the buyer should verify the presence of service book stamps for fluid top-ups (brake fluid, coolant, oil) and consider a professional fluid refresh, particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time and compromise braking performance.