2004 Mercedes CLK 2.6L Petrol · LB54 EFX

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a worsening trajectory regarding front-end mechanical components. The most recent test in January 2026 at 102,664 miles identified multiple developing advisories that were not present as severely in previous years. While the car passed, the emergence of play in both front wheel bearings and the offside lower arm ball joint indicates that the front suspension assembly is now reaching the end of its functional life. At 22 years old, the recorded mileage of 102,664 miles represents a low annual usage rate of approximately 4,600 miles. This low mileage profile often correlates with the issues seen in the record, specifically the rapid degradation of the brake discs. The tester noted poor condition on the inner braking surfaces in January 2025, followed by pitted and scored discs in January 2026. This pattern suggests the vehicle may be driven only short distances or sits for long periods, leading to surface corrosion on exposed metal components. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The recurring issue with wheel bearing play, first noted on the offside in 2024 and expanding to both sides by 2026, requires immediate attention to prevent steering instability or uneven tyre wear. The gearbox oil leak recorded in late 2022 should also be re-examined to ensure the leak has not worsened over time. Given the age of the Mercedes, a physical check for structural corrosion on the subframe and mounting points is essential, as the MOT record does not explicitly detail the level of rust present on the chassis.