2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC 1.8L Petrol · LE11 FOX

The most recent MOT history for this 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC shows a concerning pattern of repeated failures just before passing tests, with the last two cycles (December 2024 and December 2025) each ending in a failure at 50,681 and 53,155 miles respectively, only to pass the following day at slightly higher mileages. The absence of recorded defects across all tests suggests either a lack of detailed MOT reporting or that failures were minor enough to be overlooked in the official record. However, the repeated near-failures indicate a vehicle that has consistently required attention at the 12-month interval, which is unusual for a car of this age and mileage. The December 2025 failure, occurring just one day before the pass, implies either a rushed inspection or a component nearing critical failure that was just barely compliant at the time of testing. The recorded mileage of 53,156 miles over 15 years—approximately 3,544 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use. The gaps between tests (around 12 months each) align with the legal requirement, but the consistency of mileage suggests the car has not been driven regularly enough to accelerate wear. This could mean the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, which may have contributed to issues like tyre degradation, battery sulfation, or suspension component deterioration from lack of motion. The lack of significant mileage spikes also means that high-wear components like brakes, clutches, or drivetrain elements may not have been subjected to the usual stresses, though this does not guarantee their condition is optimal. Given the repeated near-failures and the absence of specific defect details, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as binding or uneven wear is often a recurring issue in MOT failures. The suspension should be closely examined for worn or leaking bushes, corroded coil springs, or excessive play in the steering or wheel bearings, as these are common failure points in older Mercedes-Benz models. Tyre condition is critical—failing twice on tread suggests either neglect or a history of underinflation, so tread depth and lateral wear patterns should be checked. Additionally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or corrosion, especially around flanges and joints, as this is a frequent cause of advisory notes in MOT tests. The battery and charging system should also be tested, as prolonged storage can lead to parasitic drain or sulfation. Finally, the interior and exterior should be scrutinised for signs of water ingress, rust around wheel arches, and the integrity of the windscreen and rear window, as these are common areas for structural compromise in vehicles of this age.