2014 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.1L Diesel · HT14 NBY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 26 September 2025 with no defects recorded. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend appears to be improving. While the vehicle suffered from recurring advisories regarding wheel bearing play and tyre wear between 2020 and 2024, the latest clean certificate indicates that these long-standing issues have likely been addressed, suggesting a recent shift toward more proactive maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 74,142 miles over a twelve year period, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,178 miles per annum. This usage rate is considered typical for a roadster of this vintage, indicating the car has been used regularly without being excessively overworked. This balanced mileage profile suggests that the drivetrain and suspension components should be in a moderate state of wear, avoiding the extremes of high-mileage fatigue or the degradation associated with prolonged periods of standing. Despite the recent clean pass, the historical records highlight a persistent issue with slight play in both the nearside and offside front wheel bearings. During a test drive, you should listen specifically for a rhythmic humming or droning noise that increases in pitch with vehicle speed, which would indicate the bearings are still degrading or were not replaced but merely adjusted. Additionally, the history of a distorted nearside front inner rim and previous dangerous tyre tread failures suggests a history of potential impact or neglect of consumables. Carefully inspect the current tyre sidewalls for uneven wear or bulges and check for any steering wheel shimmy or vibration at motorway speeds. Beyond the MOT history, a vehicle of this age requires a thorough physical inspection of its specific mechanical systems. Ensure the folding roof mechanism operates smoothly without hesitation or unusual straining noises, as these can be costly to repair. Given the age of the car, verify the service history for calendar-based fluid changes, specifically the brake fluid and transmission oil, which degrade regardless of mileage. Finally, inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion and check the 12V battery health, as these vehicles can be sensitive to voltage drops which may trigger spurious electronic warnings.