2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 1.8L Petrol · LM54 TWD

With no advisories or defects logged across the four recorded tests spanning 2022 to early 2024, this Mercedes-Benz CLK presents a remarkably clean roadworthiness profile for a car now over two decades old. The vehicle passed its most recent examination on 24 February 2024 with no defects recorded, continuing a pattern set by the previous pass on 6 January 2022. The two failed entries on the same dates as the 2022 and 2023 passes are administrative rather than mechanical red flags, typically reflecting initial refusals followed immediately by re-tests on the same day, and in both cases the follow-up test recorded zero defects. The complete absence of advisories across four years suggests that the consumable components examined at test, such as brakes, tyres, suspension joints, and exhaust system integrity, were all considered sound at the time of inspection. At 139,347 miles over approximately 21 years, annual mileage averages around 6,600 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class and indicates regular rather than extreme use. This kind of moderate accumulation generally allows components to wear at a steady, predictable rate rather than suffering the prolonged standing that can degrade rubber seals, fuel system components, and underbody protection, or the rapid motorway mileage that accelerates suspension bushing and drivetrain fatigue. There are no significant gaps in the testing record and no evidence of sudden mileage jumps, suggesting the car has remained in consistent, active use throughout its life. For a prospective buyer, the absence of recorded advisories means the MOT history alone provides no direct pointer to specific components requiring urgent inspection, but the age and mileage of this model warrant a careful physical survey focused on areas commonly affected in W209-generation CLKs. On the test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn lower control arm bushes, ball joints, or the well-documented front strut top mount wear; pay particular attention to any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which could point to warped front brake discs, a known consumable issue on higher-mileage Mercedes of this era. Inspect the underside for any signs of fluid seepage from the engine sump, power steering rack, or the rear subframe mounting points, and check that the convertible or coupe roof mechanism operates smoothly and seals evenly if applicable. Additionally, examine the condition of all visible rubber elements including the suspension thrust arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and steering tie rod inner joints, as these can deteriorate well before they trigger an MOT failure. Test the transmission for smooth, clean shifts if automatic, listening for any shudder on initial pull-away, and confirm that the electronic handbrake applies and releases cleanly. Given the clean MOT record, a pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes specialist would be a sensible investment to identify the wear items that MOT testing does not cover, particularly the timing chain condition, climate control compressor operation, and the state of the underbody corrosion protection, all of which become increasingly relevant as this vehicle moves further into its third decade of service.