2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 1.8L Petrol · HN09 JNF

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK presents a stable mechanical record, currently holding a valid MOT certificate following its most recent test on October 10, 2025, at 91,573 miles. The maintenance trend remains consistent, with no defects recorded across any of its documented tests. However, the MOT history reveals a peculiar pattern of failures in late September immediately followed by passes in early October across consecutive years. The September 2025 test at 91,566 miles failed with zero defects listed, only to pass a fortnight later with zero defects. This anomaly suggests administrative errors, presentation issues such as a dirty underbody or low fuel, or test centre procedural faults rather than underlying mechanical deterioration. The mileage accumulation is notably low for a seventeen-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 3,400 miles annually over the recorded period. Between September 2023 at 84,782 miles and September 2024 at 88,443 miles, the car covered 3,661 miles, followed by a mere 3,123 miles over the subsequent year leading to the September 2025 test. Such low annual usage often indicates prolonged periods of standing, which introduces its own set of preservation challenges distinct from high-mileage wear. The data is sparse in terms of mechanical feedback, offering no insight into how the drivetrain or braking components cope with regular use. Given the absence of flagged mechanical faults, a physical inspection must focus on the specific risks associated with low-mileage, aging premium vehicles. A buyer should thoroughly inspect the condition of the tyres, checking for sidewall perishing and date codes, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth. Brake discs and calipers require close scrutiny for surface corrosion and binding, common afflictions when a car sits stationary for extended periods. Suspension bushes and coil springs should be examined for deterioration and corrosion, while the exhaust system must be checked for rust perforation. The bizarre failure history with zero defects warrants verifying the vehicle's structural integrity and ensuring no hidden accident repairs or fluid leaks exist that might have caused a tester to reject the vehicle on presentation grounds. A pre-purchase inspection will confirm whether the previous owner maintained the vehicle adequately during its infrequent use.