2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 3.5L Petrol · MB52 BUS

The most recent DVSA examination on 4 September 2025 resulted in a Pass with no defects or advisories recorded, and this clean outcome is consistent with the preceding three annual tests from 2022, 2023 and 2024, all of which also passed without comment. Taken together, the four most recent consecutive passes demonstrate a stable and well-maintained roadworthiness trend rather than any deterioration, with the only flagged items in the entire recorded history being minor tyre-related advisories from 2019 through 2021. The absence of structural, corrosion, brake, suspension or exhaust advisories across a multi-year testing window is a reassuring indicator for a vehicle now in its nineteenth year, particularly one with such modest recorded usage. With 40,499 miles recorded against an 18-year vehicle age, the annualised mileage equates to approximately 2,250 miles per year, which is notably below the national average and well below what is typical for a Mercedes-Benz CLK of this era. Such low annual mileage generally reflects either light leisure use or, more commonly with prestige cars, extended periods of standing between uses. The mileage progression across the MOT records is steady and incremental, with no significant gaps or unexplained jumps, suggesting either consistent careful use or the possibility that some shorter journeys under the MOT annual threshold have simply not been recorded. Low mileage reduces wear on mechanical drivetrain components, clutches and braking surfaces, but it conversely elevates the risk of calendar-related degradation in items that deteriorate with age rather than use. Given the vehicle's age and low usage profile, several age-related inspections are advisable beyond what the MOT history alone reveals. Tyre condition warrants particular attention even though the most recent test was clean, as the advisories from 2019 to 2021 repeatedly noted perishing and cracking on all four tyres, a hallmark of rubber ageing rather than wear. Sidewalls should be carefully inspected for ozone cracking, crazing and brittleness, and the production date code on each tyre checked, as tyres older than six years from their DOT date should be replaced regardless of remaining tread depth. Similarly, the brake discs and calipers should be examined for surface corrosion from standing, with the handbrake mechanism tested for free operation as seized rear calipers are a common consequence of prolonged inactivity on low-mileage cars. A spongy or heavy pedal feel could indicate corroded brake hydraulic components or degraded fluid, and the brake fluid itself should be replaced on a time basis, typically every two to three years, regardless of mileage. Further checks appropriate to this age and usage pattern include verification of recent 12-volt battery health, as low-mileage vehicles with infrequent use are prone to premature battery failure and electronic control module voltage issues, and confirmation that a quality maintenance-free or AGM unit is fitted. Coolant, power steering and automatic transmission fluids all degrade over time on Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this generation, and service book stamps or invoices should be requested to evidence periodic replacement rather than purely mileage-based servicing. On a test drive, listen for suspension clunks or knocks from the front strut top mounts, control arm bushes and anti-roll bar links, which commonly perish on CLK models with age, and observe for any pulling, vibration or uneven tyre wear indicative of geometry misalignment or worn suspension components. Finally, inspect the underbody and wheel arches for any emerging structural corrosion, and verify the operation of all convenience electronics including the convertible roof mechanism if applicable, the climate control, and the COMAND infotainment system, as electrical gremlins and module failures are age-related concerns irrespective of the clean MOT record.