2012 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · LS12 BAO
2012 Mercedes-Benz C (2.1L, diesel). First registered 01 Mar 2012. Recorded mileage 113,376 miles. MOT valid until 13 Mar 2027. Taxed until 01 Mar 2027. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ C
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Valid until 13 Mar 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Mar 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 113,376 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.1L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
LS12 BAO Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 05/03/2026
- 113,376 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LS12 BAO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (LS12 BAO) between September 2022 and March 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 05 March 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (10 issues), Brakes (8 issues), Tyres (4 issues), Suspension (3 issues), Steering (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 23 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Front Brake disc significantly and obviously worn n/s o/s (1.1.14 (a) (i))”; “Front Service brake excessively fluctuating n/s & o/s (1.2.1 (e))”; “Offside Rear Seat belt buckle not functioning as intended (7.1.2 (d))”.
LS12 BAO Mileage History
- 27/09/2022102,669 mi
- 20/02/2024103,081 mi+412 mi
- 06/03/2025109,397 mi+6,316 mi
- 14/03/2025109,397 mi
- 05/03/2026113,376 mi+3,979 mi
Average of roughly 3,116 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Digital Service History
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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This is a solid option for a buyer seeki
When inspecting this specific C-Class, focus on the diesel powertrain and the high-mileage components. Given that the model aggregate data identifies suspension arms and tyres as common failure points, you should check for any knocks or knocks from the front end and ensure the tyre tread and sidewalls are in good condition.
Because this vehicle has covered over 113,000 miles, we recommend verifying the service history for evidence of major interval changes, such as the timing chain or gearbox oil. Ask the seller for documentation regarding any recent work on the diesel particulate filter (DPF) or fuel system, as these are common considerations for diesel engines of this age and mileage.
As a 2148cc diesel, this Mercedes-Benz is designed for efficient long-distance cruising, though running costs will be influenced by its age and mileage. Fuel economy should be relatively high compared to petrol alternatives, but maintenance costs may rise as components reach the end of their typical service life at this mileage.
Expect typical insurance groups for a mid-range Mercedes saloon and standard road tax for a 2012 diesel model. Annual running costs will primarily consist of fuel, insurance, and a budget for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs common to high-mileage vehicles.
Pay close attention to the suspension system; the aggregate data for this model frequently cites suspension arms as a top MOT failure reason. Test the car over uneven surfaces to listen for any play or noise. Additionally, check the condition of the headlamps, as lighting issues are a noted common failure point for this model type.
Given the mileage, inspect the tyres thoroughly for uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues. Finally, check for any signs of oil leaks around the engine bay, which can sometimes be observed in high-mileage diesel engines of this era.
This 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (LS12BAO) is a white 2.1L diesel saloon that has covered 113,376 miles as of its last MOT in March 2026. The vehicle has a recorded history of five MOT tests, with the most recent two passing without defects. Although it has covered more miles than the aggregate model average of 7,591 per year, the lack of recent failures suggests a consistent standard of compliance.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 82.2% MOT pass rate, with suspension and lighting being the most frequent areas of concern.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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