2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 3.0L Diesel · ML58 JCU

The most recent recorded DVSA test on 26 March 2026 resulted in a failure, although the causes were relatively minor in nature. The two major defects recorded concerned the windscreen washer system providing insufficient washer fluid and the wiper mechanism failing to clear the windscreen effectively, accompanied by a minor advisory for defective wiper blades on both sides. The advisories noted at the same test, being a headlamp lens product residue and a slightly discoloured front direction indicator, were not deemed to reduce light output or safety significantly. Looking at the broader trend, the vehicle has passed three of its last five tests and failed two, with the earlier failure in early 2022 being attributable to genuinely serious items such as corroded brake pipes and a fractured rear coil spring. The intervening years show a mixture of advisories, some of which have recurred, while the most recent failure was largely cosmetic and easily rectifiable. Overall, the maintenance trajectory appears neither sharply worsening nor improving; instead, it suggests an ageing vehicle that requires ongoing attention to consumables and the kind of corrosion and wear items expected at this mileage and age. The recorded mileage of 149,741 miles against an 18-year vehicle age equates to an average annual usage of approximately 8,319 miles, which is broadly typical for a luxury saloon of this vintage. There are no extended gaps in the MOT history that would indicate prolonged standing periods, and the regularity of annual tests suggests the car has been in continuous road use. This kind of consistent usage is generally beneficial, as it reduces the likelihood of seizing components, perishing seals, and brake disc corrosion from inactivity. However, the cumulative wear on mechanical components such as suspension bushes, engine mountings, drivetrain mounts, and interior trim should be considered commensurate with approaching 150,000 miles. Given the average mileage, the buyer should anticipate that major service items such as timing chain components on the M272 or M273 V6/V8 engines (commonly fitted to the CLS of this era), automatic transmission fluid and filter changes, and cooling system renewal are likely to be required imminently. A review of the recurring advisory items highlights several areas worthy of close inspection prior to purchase. The nearside front lower suspension arm pin or bush has been flagged in three consecutive tests, indicating progressive wear that, while not yet resulting in excessive movement, will likely require replacement in the near term. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, as well as noting any vague or wandering steering response which could relate to the advisory recorded for play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint. The offside front upper Macpherson strut pin or bush wear, noted in 2024, is another suspension component to monitor for similar symptoms. The fractured rear coil springs recorded in both 2022 failures represent a known weakness on this model; on inspection, the rear ride height should appear level and any audible knocking from the rear over undulations could indicate further spring deterioration. Brake disc wear was previously flagged on both rear discs, and given the vehicle's age and mileage, the front discs and pads should also be physically inspected for wear and lipping. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age and mileage-related checks are essential for a vehicle of this profile. Brake pipes were flagged as excessively corroded in 2022 and were presumably renewed to pass that test; however, corrosion of underbody brake lines, fuel lines, and structural components should be carefully examined, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframe mounting points. The persistent oil leak advisories, noted in 2024 and 2025 as not excessive, warrant inspection for fresh oil residue on the engine, sump, and surrounding components, with attention to the known issue of balance shaft gear wear and timing cover gasket seepage on this engine family. A comprehensive underbonnet inspection should confirm fluid levels and condition, particularly the age and clarity of the brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, all of which degrade over time regardless of mileage. Tyres should be examined for both tread depth and sidewall cracking or perishing consistent with their manufacturing date, as tyres older than six years may require replacement regardless of remaining tread. Finally, the 12V battery state of health should be verified, the condition of the exhaust system assessed for corrosion or blowing joints, and a full OBD diagnostic scan undertaken to identify any stored fault codes relating to the engine management, transmission, or emissions systems which would not be visible on a standard MOT.