2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1.8L Petrol · M28 SAA

A chronic pattern of brake and suspension advisories defines the mechanical profile of this 2004 Mercedes SLK, with the most recent pass recorded on 18 November 2025 at 98,618 miles and the test history showing persistent flags on components that are progressive by nature. The offside front brake pipe has been recorded as corroded and covered in grease or other material across three consecutive tests (2022, 2023, and the 2023 failure), indicating that surface corrosion has been evident for at least three years and the condition is likely to have worsened since the last inspection. Brake hose deterioration has been flagged on both front hoses in 2023 and has not been remarked upon in either 2024 or 2025, though this is more likely to indicate the advisories were not repeated rather than fully resolved. The near side rear shock absorber has carried a light oil misting advisory since 2022, again suggesting a slow leak that will progress. A serious concern is the 2023 failure for an airbag system warning lamp fault, a major non-compliance item relating to supplementary restraint system integrity that requires diagnostic investigation to confirm whether the fault has been rectified or is merely dormant. The recorded mileage of 98,618 miles over approximately 22 years equates to roughly 4,483 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and suggests either limited use or extended periods off the road. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record visible across the five entries from 2022 through 2025, but the low accumulation rate means that annual mileage is around a third of typical UK averages. This pattern of low use has direct mechanical implications: seals, hoses, and flexible components such as the brake hoses and suspension bushes deteriorate through age and standing exposure rather than through wear, so the chronologically aged items flagged in the advisories are likely progressing regardless of the modest distance covered. The recurring rear shock oil misting is particularly consistent with seal degradation caused by infrequent use rather than high-mileage wear. Prospective buyers should focus the physical inspection on the brake pipework, as the offside front pipe has now been flagged as corroded for three successive tests and is the most likely candidate for imminent replacement. On inspection, look closely at all visible brake lines along the underside, particularly unions and flexi-to-rigid junctions, and listen for any scraping or feel for a soft brake pedal on the test drive that might indicate compromised pipe integrity. The brake hoses should be examined by squeezing them to check for cracking or sponginess, and the front calipers and discs checked for binding or uneven wear, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from seized caliper slide pins that produce judder under braking. The near side rear shock absorber should be inspected by pushing down firmly on each rear corner and releasing to check for any lack of damping or continued bounce, which would confirm that the oil misting has progressed to functional loss. The tyre advisories across the 2024 and 2025 tests indicate edge wear on both front tyres and perishing damage on the offside rear, which is consistent with the SLK's known geometry characteristics and the low-mileage standing pattern. On a test drive, pay particular attention to steering pull or uneven turn-in response that would suggest the edge wear is accompanied by misalignment, and check for any knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces as the front brake hoses and suspension bushes will be ageing simultaneously. The exhaust noted as rusty in 2024 is typical for a 22-year-old vehicle but warrants a visual check for blow holes or excessive noise on start-up. Finally, the supplementary restraint system warning lamp that caused the 2023 failure requires confirmation through a live diagnostic scan that no airbag or pretensioner fault codes remain stored, as intermittent warning lamp issues can resurface and would represent a significant safety concern if unresolved.