2004 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · JE54 RDS

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-07-25—just under a year ago—confirms it passed without defects at 135,204 miles, though this follows an unusual pattern of two consecutive failures in 2025 and 2024, both at nearly identical mileages (135,048 and 132,177 respectively). The lack of recorded defects across all five tests suggests no persistent mechanical issues were formally identified by the tester, yet the repeated failures at the same intervals raise suspicion. Such a pattern typically indicates administrative oversights rather than genuine roadworthiness concerns, though the buyer should verify whether these failures stemmed from minor oversights (e.g., minor corrosion, worn wiper blades) or if the vehicle was simply retested after minor repairs. The absence of advisories or major faults in the latest pass implies no critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers—were deemed unsafe, but the irregular retesting warrants scrutiny of the owner’s maintenance discipline. The mileage progression of roughly 6,146 miles annually aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the abrupt jumps between tests—particularly the 1,027-mile gap between the 2024 failure and the 2023 pass—suggest either inconsistent test scheduling or a period of reduced driving. The most recent 135,204 miles at the 2025 test indicates the vehicle has not been driven significantly since then, which could either mean it has been stored or used sparingly. This low recent mileage reduces immediate wear concerns but does not eliminate the need for an inspection of components prone to degradation over long periods, such as fluid levels, tyre condition, and structural integrity. Given the lack of formal defects, the buyer’s priority should focus on high-wear areas that often fail silently or deteriorate over time. The repeated failures at nearly identical mileages—despite no recorded issues—suggest a pattern of either rushed testing or minor oversights, so inspect the suspension for worn bushes or corroded mounting points, particularly on the rear axle where binding calipers or uneven wear might have been overlooked. Brake discs and pads should be checked for uneven thickness or glazing, as should the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion, especially given the vehicle’s age. Tyre tread depth and lateral wear patterns are also critical, as failing twice on this criterion would imply basic upkeep was neglected. Finally, verify the structural integrity of the chassis and sills for rust penetration, as this is a common silent failure in older Mercedes models.