2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 3.5L Petrol · LR54 URZ

The roadworthiness of this vehicle is currently critical following a rapidly worsening trend in structural and mechanical condition. While the car passed without defects in February 2023, the most recent test in October 2025 at 96,553 miles resulted in a comprehensive failure. The most alarming finding is the offside rear sub-frame, which is flagged as seriously weakened, a structural failure that necessitates immediate attention. This represents a significant degradation from February 2024 where the sub-frame was merely fractured. The vehicle exhibits a low mileage profile, covering 96,553 miles over 22 years, which averages approximately 4,389 miles per annum. However, the data reveals a period of high activity or potential neglect between February 2023 and February 2024, where the car covered over 4,000 miles in a short window. The low annual usage likely contributed to the extensive corrosion observed in the underbody, as vehicles that sit for long periods are prone to accelerated oxidation on metal components and the degradation of rubber seals as seen in the record. A buyer must conduct a rigorous physical inspection of the chassis and underbody, focusing specifically on the rear sub-frame and brake pipe integrity. The history shows recurring issues with corroded brake pipes and the sub-frame, suggesting that the environment has been harsh on the metal. The suspension also shows multiple failure points, with the nearside front track rod end reaching a serious risk of detachment in 2025, alongside consistently worn suspension arm bushes and anti-roll bars across several tests. The braking system requires thorough evaluation as the tester noted pitted and scored discs alongside thin pads in the most recent failure. The presence of a fluid leak in October 2025, combined with corroded piping, indicates that the hydraulic system is failing. Given the structural weaknesses and the cumulative nature of the suspension faults, this vehicle likely requires significant investment to bring it to a safe and roadworthy standard.