2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.1L Diesel · NB07 NER

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in August 2025 at 55,960 miles passed, it revealed several defects that were absent in the previous year. The transition from a clean record to multiple failures involving a distorted front road wheel and thinning nearside rear brake pads indicates that mechanical components are only being addressed once they reach a point of failure during annual inspections. The mileage profile is notably low for a 13-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,300 miles per year. There is a significant usage gap between October 2021 and September 2023, where the car covered only 33 miles in nearly two years. Following this period, usage increased to 6,828 miles driven between September 2023 and August 2025. This low-frequency usage often leads to the degradation of rubber-based components and fluid stagnation, which may explain the recent failures related to wiper blades and lighting assemblies. A buyer must conduct a physical inspection of the front wheel to address the distortion flagged in 2025, as bent rims can cause vibrations and uneven tyre wear. The braking system requires a thorough check because the nearside rear pads were already nearing their service limit. Additionally, the recurring issue with the offside headlamp lens and the registration plate lamp being inoperative across multiple tests suggests a lack of attention to minor electrical faults. Given the low mileage, the buyer should also inspect for caliper corrosion and perished seals that frequently occur during long periods of stationary storage.