2003 Mercedes-Benz C 2.1L Diesel · ML53 VJJ
2003 Mercedes-Benz C (2.1L, diesel). First registered 30 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 115,538 miles. MOT valid until 27 Jul 2027.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ C
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Manchester & Merseyside
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 27 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 115,538 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.1L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
ML53 VJJ Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 29/07/2026
- 115,538 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (5 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
ML53 VJJ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (ML53 VJJ) between June 2023 and July 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 29 July 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (5 issues), Tyres (3 issues), Brakes (3 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 9 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
ML53 VJJ Mileage History
- 23/06/202388,236 mi
- 22/06/2024100,440 mi+12,204 mi
- 22/06/2024100,440 mi
- 26/07/2025105,638 mi+5,198 mi
- 29/07/2026115,538 mi+9,900 mi
Average of roughly 8,809 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
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MERCEDES-BENZ C Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2003 model year cars.
- Valeo radiator gearbox contaminationSerious
Radiator can leak coolant into the transmission fluid, destroying the gearbox.
- M271 timing chain stretchSerious
The 1.8 Kompressor petrol engine uses a timing chain that stretches over time, causing rattling on cold start. In severe cases the chain can jump, destroying the engine.
- Rust on arches, sills and bootlidSerious
W203s are notorious for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills and bootlid edges. Structural corrosion on sills and subframe mounting areas is an MOT failure.
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