2020 Mercedes-Benz C 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · LS70 OOV

The most recent MOT test on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C took place in October 2025 and resulted in a passing grade, with two advisories noted regarding the near-side and offside front brake discs being worn but not to an excessive degree. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT outcomes over the past two years, where advisories on brake disc wear and minor wheel distortions have been the most frequent recurring issues. However, there are notable exceptions in the vehicle’s history, particularly the failed MOTs of 2023, which highlighted a major failure due to a severely damaged and weakened offside front lower suspension arm, alongside multiple advisories on brake pad wear and tyre damage. While the 2025 test suggests some improvement or stabilisation in the overall condition, the presence of persistent brake-related advisories and the critical failure in 2023 indicate that the suspension and braking systems have experienced significant wear or defects over time, warranting careful attention. The recorded mileage of 34,779 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 5,796 miles, which is notably lower than the typical mileage accumulation for a car of this age and class. Such low mileage can suggest periods of prolonged inactivity, which may contribute to issues such as standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and undercarriage. However, the absence of higher mileage figures does not automatically mitigate the risk of wear-related failures, especially given the critical suspension damage recorded in 2023. The vehicle’s maintenance history should be scrutinised further to determine whether the low mileage has been maintained consistently or if there were periods of higher usage that could have accelerated wear on consumables like brakes and tyres. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the brake discs, pads, and calipers for signs of uneven wear, corrosion, or binding. During a test drive, listen for any unusual brake pedal pulsation or shuddering, which could indicate warped discs or internal brake failure. The offside front brake discs and pads show repeated advisories, suggesting that the pads may be nearing the end of their serviceable life, and the discs are experiencing moderate wear. The near-side rear brake pads were also noted as wearing thin in previous tests, indicating that a full brake service may be required soon to replace these components before they reach the dangerous threshold of less than 1.5 mm thickness. Additionally, the 2023 failure due to a damaged suspension arm underscores the need to inspect the front lower suspension arms, springs, and shock absorbers for signs of further deterioration, particularly the offside side, where external damage and distortion were previously recorded. Check for any clunking noises from the suspension during cornering or bumps, and visually inspect the casings of the shock absorbers for leaks or damage. For the suspension and wheel components, the buyer should verify the structural integrity of the offside front lower suspension arm, as the 2023 failure was classified as major and critically weakened. Any further signs of deformation, cracks, or excessive play in the arm or associated bushings could lead to instability or premature failure. The offside front wheel was also noted as slightly distorted in multiple MOTs, which may require alignment or further inspection for long-term stability. The tyres, particularly the near-side front tyre, had a major failure in 2023 due to a deep cut reaching the ply, necessitating immediate replacement. The offside front tyre showed signs of cracking or perishing, which is a serious indicator of tyre degradation that should be addressed promptly to prevent blowouts or accidents. The buyer should also check for any remaining nails or sharp objects embedded in the tyres, as these can cause sudden punctures. Regarding the vehicle’s age and low mileage, while there is no immediate cause for concern beyond the noted advisories, it is prudent to inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of age-related perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity over time. Additionally, check the 12V battery and associated electrical systems for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as prolonged standing can exacerbate these issues. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a review of the service history for fluid servicing—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—is essential, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations to maintain optimal performance and prevent corrosion.