2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 1.8L Petrol · LR04 RAS

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 13 September 2025. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with a consistent pass rate and a minimal number of recurring advisories. The most persistent issue is a cosmetic product residue on the front headlamp lenses, which has been noted for three consecutive years without escalating to a failure. This suggests the vehicle is being maintained to a standard that avoids major mechanical neglect, though some minor deferred maintenance is evident. With 120,045 miles recorded over a twenty-year lifespan, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,000 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a luxury coupe of this era, suggesting it has not suffered from the extreme wear associated with high-mileage commuting nor the degradation often found in vehicles that have spent prolonged periods standing. At this mileage, the drivetrain and chassis are likely in a mid-life state, meaning while the core components remain viable, the vehicle is entering a phase where rubber-based consumables and hydraulic seals typically require replacement. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front end, as previous advisories highlighted wear in the suspension arm bushes and anti-roll bar linkages. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring, as these are classic symptoms of perished suspension bushes. Additionally, the 2022 advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs suggests a potential for brake shudder or reduced stopping efficiency. Check the disc surfaces for deep scoring or rust ridges and ensure the pedal feel is firm and consistent without vibration under heavy braking. The record of a non-excessive oil leak in 2020 warrants a physical inspection of the engine bay and the underside of the chassis for fresh residue or staining. Given the age of the vehicle, check for seepage around the valve cover gaskets and oil sump. Furthermore, while the headlamp lens issue is minor, ensure the light beam pattern is correct and not obscured by oxidation. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based maintenance, such as transmission fluid changes and coolant flushes, has been performed, as these are critical for the long-term reliability of a Mercedes-Benz drivetrain regardless of the annual mileage.