2012 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · LS62 RBO

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 September 2025, but the overall maintenance trend has deteriorated significantly over the last eighteen months. After several years of clean passes, the 2025 records reveal a pattern of neglect, including two failures involving critical safety systems. The occurrence of a dangerous failure for a fractured road wheel and recurring faults with the anti-lock braking system and electronic stability control suggests a period of poor upkeep or a lack of preventative maintenance that contrasts sharply with the vehicle's earlier history. With 109,293 miles recorded over fourteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,807 miles per annum. This is a typical usage rate for a premium saloon of this vintage, suggesting it has not suffered from the degradation associated with prolonged standing nor the excessive wear of high-mileage motorway use. However, at this mileage, the drivetrain and suspension components are entering a phase where wear-and-tear replacements become necessary, particularly regarding rubber bushings and drivetrain couplings. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the braking system and chassis. The recurring advisories for low brake fluid, combined with the recorded corrosion of both front brake pipes, indicate a potential need for a full brake system overhaul or pipe replacement to ensure structural integrity. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises or vibrations from the rear of the vehicle, as the deteriorated prop shaft flexible coupling can cause thumping sounds or shuddering under acceleration. The previous ABS and ESC failures are concerning; ensure all dashboard warning lamps extinguish upon startup and that the vehicle tracks straight under braking without erratic pulsing. Given the history of a fractured wheel and headlamp failures, a thorough physical inspection of all alloy wheels for cracks, welds, or repairs is essential. The mention of plastic covers restricting the tester's view is a point of concern, as this can sometimes be used to obscure fluid leaks or chassis corrosion from inspectors. You should verify the service history to confirm that the ABS and ESC faults were professionally diagnosed and repaired rather than simply cleared via a diagnostic tool. Finally, check the tyres for uneven wear, which could indicate suspension geometry issues resulting from the previous wheel failure.