2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA 1.6L Petrol · LS66 GCF

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA, conducted on 2025-07-09, resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories related to brake system wear and tyre condition, alongside a single major failure in 2023. The 2023 test highlighted a critical nearside rear coil spring fracture, which would have rendered the vehicle unsafe if not addressed, suggesting that the vehicle has undergone significant maintenance or corrective work since then. While the 2024 and 2022 tests show advisories rather than failures, the persistence of thin brake pads and worn tyres—particularly on the rear axle—indicates ongoing mechanical stress and potential neglect of routine servicing. The 2023 failure also points to a period of either high usage or improper maintenance, as the tyre wear advisories and coil spring issue were not present in earlier tests, implying either rapid mileage accumulation or deferred repairs. The recorded mileage of 91,227 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,136 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for this class of car. Lower mileage could suggest periods of inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion on brake components, fluid degradation in the cooling or brake systems, or tyre perishing from prolonged exposure to the elements. Conversely, higher-than-average mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres, which aligns with the advisories observed in the MOT history. Given the coil spring failure in 2023, it is plausible that the vehicle has been driven more heavily in recent years, particularly if the spring was replaced after the MOT failure. This could explain the wear on the rear brakes and tyres, as increased load distribution and dynamic stress would exacerbate these components over time. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the brake system, suspension, and tyres. The advisories for thin brake pads and worn rear brake discs suggest that the pads may need replacement soon, with the discs potentially requiring grinding or replacement if further wear occurs. Listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding noise during braking, or a vibration or shudder that could indicate warped discs or misaligned calipers. On the test drive, check for excessive play or clunking noises from the rear suspension, which could signal further coil spring or bush wear beyond the initial fracture. Inspect the rear tyres closely for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues contributing to the observed wear. The nearside rear tyre wear on the edge and inner tread suggests potential camber or alignment problems, warranting a professional alignment check if the vehicle is driven frequently. For the buyer, the vehicle’s age and mileage make it prudent to address the following checks beyond the MOT advisories. Given the coil spring failure, verify that the suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, have been serviced or replaced according to manufacturer recommendations. The tyre tread depth should be checked for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity, especially in older vehicles. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as prolonged standing can lead to battery failure or poor electrical systems performance. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing brake fluid can degrade over time, leading to reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, verify that all fluid levels—coolant, oil, and transmission fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, review the service history for the brake system, suspension, and tyres to confirm that all recommended maintenance has been completed, particularly around the rear axle where the most significant issues have arisen.