2017 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · KY67 VOU

A pattern of tyre-related failures and advisories dominates the MOT record for this 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, with all six recorded tests between 2021 and 2025 producing some form of tyre defect. The September 2025 test on 56,469 miles captured both a pass and a fail on the same date, with the failure citing a dangerous nearside front tyre bulge caused by structural separation, alongside a major offside front cut exposing ply or cords. This mirrors the September 2021 failure for exposed ply or cords on the offside front, and the October 2024 failure for a similar offside front cut. Three of the four tests from 2022 onwards also recorded tyres worn close to the legal limit on the inner or outer edges, suggesting consistent uneven wear patterns rather than isolated incidents. The near-side front inner road wheel has been flagged as slightly distorted at both 2024 and 2025 tests, indicating either a persistent impact damage or a recurring advisory on the same wheel over consecutive years. Annual mileage of approximately 6,274 miles over nine years is broadly typical for the vehicle's age, though the testing record shows a gap between the 2021 and 2022 tests followed by consecutive annual tests from 2022 through 2025. This suggests the car returned to regular use after a period of lighter activity, which combined with the relatively modest annual mileage means braking components, suspension bushes, and drivetrain wear should not be excessively advanced for the recorded odometer reading. The under-trays noted in 2023 would have concealed some underbody components from inspection at that test, so any rust or leaks on subframe, brake lines, and lower suspension arms could have developed unseen since. The low overall mileage does, however, bring typical low-use considerations for components such as brake discs corroding on the friction surface and tyres developing sidewall cracking through prolonged static loading. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing area to inspect is the wheel and tyre package. The nearside front inner wheel has been repeatedly flagged as distorted and should be examined for cracks, buckling, or run-out, ideally with the wheel removed to check for hairline fractures around the rim. All four tyres should be measured for tread depth across the full width, with particular attention to inner-edge wear which has appeared on multiple advisories; this can indicate incorrect tracking, worn suspension bushes, or bent suspension arms rather than simple tyre ageing. On a test drive, listen for any humming or vibration that changes with road speed, which would suggest the distorted wheel is now affecting balance or tracking, and feel for steering pull or vagueness through corners. The brake system warrants a thorough inspection given the wheel and tyre issues, as distorted wheels can transmit shudder through the brake pedal under firm application. Check for binding or uneven pad wear by examining disc surfaces for hot spots, lipping, or rust scoring, and verify the handbrake holds firmly on a slope. With under-trays previously fitted, jack the vehicle and remove any covers to examine the front subframe, lower control arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and brake pipe unions for corrosion or weeping, as these are common Mercedes weak points particularly around the spring seats and rear axle. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at mounting rubbers and joints, and confirm that no warning lights remain illuminated on the dashboard after start-up, as any unresolved tyre-related failures since the last MOT could have triggered ABS or traction control fault codes.