2008 Mercedes C 320 3.0L Diesel · KM58 BNZ

The most recent MOT, conducted on 25 April 2025 at 82,093 miles, resulted in a pass, but the record reveals a pattern of recurring minor defects rather than a clean bill of health. The maintenance trend is broadly stable, though not without nagging electrical and suspension issues. On the same day as the pass, a failed test was recorded citing an engine MIL inoperative or indicating a malfunction, alongside a slight play in the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint and an oil leak. The pass certificate was issued with advisories for the same oil leak and ball joint play, suggesting these were deemed borderline rather than dangerous. This indicates the car is roadworthy but requires attention to a persistent oil leak and a worn suspension component that has now appeared in consecutive test cycles. The mileage accumulation is notably low for an 18-year-old vehicle. Between the October 2023 test at 77,495 miles and the April 2024 test at 79,666 miles, the car covered just 2,171 miles in six months. From April 2024 to April 2025, it added only 2,427 miles, bringing the total to 82,093. This equates to roughly 4,500 miles per year, well below the UK average. Such low annual use raises the possibility of long periods of standing, which can cause tyre perishing, brake corrosion, and fluid degradation. The October 2023 test flagged both rear tyres as perished and a rear brake pipe as corroded, classic symptoms of a vehicle that sits idle for extended stretches. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on the front suspension and braking system. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint has shown slight play in the most recent test, and the nearside front lower arm pin or bush was flagged as worn in October 2023. These components are critical for steering precision and should be checked for excessive movement on a ramp. The oil leak, noted as not excessive in the latest test, requires identification of its source, whether that is a rocker cover gasket, oil filter housing, or a more costly main seal. Brake pipe corrosion was flagged in 2023, and while it may have been addressed, a thorough inspection of the entire braking system for rust and fluid condition is advisable. Electrical gremlins have been a recurring theme. The 2024 test failed for multiple lighting faults on the offside, including position and stop lamps, and the 2023 test flagged several inoperative bulbs and a registration plate lamp. The 2025 failure specifically cited an engine MIL inoperative, which could indicate a blown bulb or a deliberate attempt to mask an engine fault. A buyer should verify all exterior lights function correctly and connect a diagnostic tool to check for stored engine fault codes. The combination of low mileage, recurring minor faults, and borderline advisories suggests a vehicle that has been used gently but not always maintained with diligence.