2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 1.9L Diesel · LS70 OOG

The latest MOT test result for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC on 2026-08-04 was a pass, following a failure on the previous test in August 2025, which highlighted critical tyre defects—both a dangerous near-side front tyre with tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm and a worn-offside front tyre nearing the legal limit. While the 2026 test returned to a clean pass, the recurring advisories on the near-side rear tyre cracking or perishing suggest a pattern of wear and potential underlying issues affecting tyre integrity. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a period of stability with no defects recorded in the two years prior to the 2025 failure, but the subsequent failure and advisory trend indicate that the tyre system may have been overlooked or subjected to uneven or excessive stress, warranting closer scrutiny of tyre alignment, rotation, and road surface contact. The recorded mileage of 40,911 miles for a 2020 GLC represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,818 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. However, the gap between the 2023 and 2025 MOTs—over two years without testing—could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, potentially leading to standing corrosion, particularly on the near-side components where the recent tyre advisories were noted. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, the near-side rear tyre’s cracking or perishing may be exacerbated by exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations, while standing brakes could develop corrosion or binding in the calipers and discs. Conversely, if the mileage accumulation was rapid, this could accelerate wear on suspension bushes, steering components, and brake systems, contributing to the observed tyre defects. For the prospective buyer, the immediate priority should be a thorough inspection of the tyre system, focusing on the near-side front and rear tyres for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or further cracking. On a test drive, listen for irregularities in tyre noise, particularly on the near-side, and check for vibrations or pulling that may indicate misalignment or excessive camber. The near-side front tyre’s previous failure suggests the vehicle may have been driven on surfaces that caused uneven contact, such as rough roads or poor alignment. Additionally, visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Beyond tyres, the buyer should examine the suspension and steering components for signs of wear or damage. Pay particular attention to the near-side rear suspension, where the cracking tyre advisory may correlate with bush or spring degradation, leading to clunking noises or reduced ride quality. Test the vehicle’s handling for excessive play in the steering wheel or uneven suspension travel, which could indicate worn control arms, ball joints, or coil springs. For the brakes, check for corrosion on the near-side front discs or signs of binding in the calipers, which may require hydraulic system inspection to ensure proper function and prevent stopping performance issues. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing corrosion, a visual check of the undercarriage for rust or leaks around the exhaust, fuel lines, and electrical connections is also advisable. Finally, since the GLC is approaching its sixth year, consider scheduling a professional service to verify fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and differential oil—due to their susceptibility to degradation over time, even with moderate mileage.