2018 Mercedes-Benz C 220 AMG Line D Auto 2.1L Heavy oil · LS18 AAU

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 10 August 2026, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle was considered roadworthy at the point of inspection. Reviewing the recorded MOT history, the vehicle has passed at every annual test since 2022, with no advisories, failures, or recurring component flags across four consecutive examinations. Such a pattern is a positive indicator of either diligent maintenance or components not yet reaching the threshold for advisory reporting. While the absence of advisories suggests mechanical stability, it is worth noting that MOT testing is a statutory minimum standard and does not replace a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, particularly on a premium German saloon of this age and mileage. The vehicle is approximately eight years old with 96,429 recorded miles, equating to an annual average of around 12,054 miles per year. This is above the typical UK average mileage of 8,000 miles and indicates that the car has been used consistently, likely on a mix of motorway and urban journeys. Higher annual mileage generally correlates with greater wear on consumable items such as brake pads and discs, tyres, and clutch components, alongside more frequent servicing of engine oil, filters, and transmission fluid. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, which is favourable as it reduces the likelihood of issues such as seized brake calipers, perished rubber seals, or moisture accumulation in fluids. Given the clean MOT history, physical inspection should focus on age and mileage-related degradation that may not yet have reached advisory threshold. Tyres should be examined closely for uneven tread wear across the axle, which can point to worn suspension bushes, tracking misalignment, or failing shock absorbers, and the sidewalls should be checked for cracking or perishing from age, which is common on vehicles kept outdoors. The 12V battery should be tested for state of charge and cranking performance, as Mercedes-Benz vehicles are sensitive to voltage drops and can exhibit electronic warning faults when battery health declines. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion rings, or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has seen periods of light use, and the fluid should be assessed for service history, as brake fluid should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. A test drive should include a thorough check of the automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and timely gear selection through all ranges, as Mercedes 7G-Tronic and 9G-Tronic units can develop mechatronic wear at this mileage. Listen for any clonks or rattles from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn control arm bushes, top mounts, or anti-roll bar drop links. The diesel engine should be started from cold and observed for excessive smoke, particularly under load, and any warning lights on the instrument cluster should be noted and investigated with a diagnostic scan. Finally, verify the documented service history to confirm that all routine maintenance, including the all-important timing chain service on the OM654 engine and regular AdBlue system checks, has been carried out at the correct intervals, as any lapses in servicing on a high-mileage premium diesel can lead to costly remedial work.