2005 Mercedes CLK 3.2L Petrol · LD05 ETE

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness status, though the history indicates a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. The most recent test in October 2022 at 100,423 miles passed with advisories for a nearside front suspension arm bush and a nearside front wheel bearing with play. While these issues did not cause a failure, they suggest that the front suspension geometry is reaching the end of its functional life, following similar steering rack joint issues noted in the 2020 test. At 21 years old, the recorded mileage of 100,423 miles represents a low average of approximately 4,800 miles per year. The data shows a significant gap of 9,340 miles between September 2020 and October 2021, followed by another 7,556 miles over the following year. This low-annual usage explains the lack of heavy mechanical wear on drivetrain components, but it often leads to degradation of rubber-based parts and seals, which aligns with the recurring reports regarding suspension bushes and wheel bearings. A physical inspection must focus heavily on the front end and steering assembly. The record repeatedly flags play in the steering rack inner joints and the nearside front wheel bearing, which can affect handling and cause uneven tyre wear. The buyer should also verify the offside front coil spring, as a fractured unit caused a failure in 2021, and check for corrosion on the suspension arms. Given that the rear brake pads were noted as thin in 2020, a thorough measurement of the braking system is required to ensure no binding calipers or excessive wear has developed since the last recorded check.