2017 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Electric diesel · LL67 GDV

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-26 returned a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has met all roadworthiness standards at that time. However, the overall maintenance trend over the past five years is mixed, with a notable failure in 2022-01-15 due to a severely worn nearside front suspension arm ball joint, which was not present in earlier tests. While subsequent MOTs have shown improvements—with advisories now limited to minor wear and minor suspension play rather than outright failure—this history suggests that the suspension components, particularly the ball joints and rear brake systems, have experienced significant wear over time. The presence of advisories such as nearside rear tyre wear close to legal limits and worn brake pads indicates ongoing but manageable degradation, which should be monitored closely to prevent escalation into major issues. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 130,905 miles at the time of this assessment is exceptionally high for its age, averaging approximately 14,545 miles per year—a rate that is far above the typical usage of a similarly aged car. Such high mileage typically correlates with increased wear on critical components like brakes, suspension, and drivetrain elements, which aligns with the observed MOT findings. The absence of significant service intervals or long periods of inactivity suggests the vehicle has undergone considerable stress, particularly on the suspension and braking systems, which may have contributed to the wear patterns detected. The rapid mileage accumulation also raises concerns about potential misuse, such as frequent short trips or aggressive driving, which can accelerate component degradation. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and past failure. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the front suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or sharp turns, which could indicate further wear in the ball joints or damaged suspension arms. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the edges of the rear tyres, which may suggest misalignment or camber issues exacerbated by the vehicle’s high mileage. Inspect the rear brake discs for consistent thickness and signs of scoring or pitting, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or damaged brake calipers. Additionally, visually inspect the rear brake pads for excessive thickness reduction and ensure there is adequate friction material remaining. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can become a safety hazard over time, especially given the vehicle’s age. Given the high mileage and potential exposure to standing conditions, check for corrosion on the brake discs, particularly near the rear, where standing brake heat can accelerate rust formation. Verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can lead to battery degradation or parasitic drain issues. Finally, ensure that all fluids—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission oil—are within specification and free from contamination, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. If possible, review the vehicle’s service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as wheel alignment, brake servicing, and suspension component replacement, has been carried out.