2005 Mercedes CLS 3.0L Diesel · ND55 FUB

The vehicle is currently not road‑worthy; the February 2024 MOT failed because of excessive engine oil leakage and severe corrosion of both near‑side and off‑side brake pipes. Earlier failures in December 2022 for exhaust emissions and multiple wheel fractures, combined with the recent oil‑leak issue, indicate a deteriorating maintenance trend rather than a stabilising one. At the time of the latest test the odometer read 157,546 miles. The record shows an increase of 7,775 miles between the November 2023 pass (149,771 miles) and the February 2024 fail, consistent with the long‑term average of roughly 7,500 miles per year for a 21‑year‑old car. Mileage growth between earlier tests – 8,863 miles from November 2020 to November 2021, then 4,983 miles to November 2021, and a modest 4 miles to December 2022 – suggests regular usage without prolonged storage periods. No significant gaps in testing are evident, and the recorded figures align with typical wear for the age of the vehicle. A prospective buyer should focus on the components repeatedly flagged. Inspect the engine bay for active oil seepage and verify that the source is repaired, as unchecked leakage can affect seals and bearings. Examine both brake pipes for rust, pitting, or compromised integrity, and confirm that the entire braking system – discs, pads, and calipers – functions without binding. The history of fractured wheels and tyre edges demands a thorough check of all rims for cracks, corrosion, and proper tyre tread depth. Verify that the exhaust system no longer emits excessive smoke and that the parking brake engages reliably. Given the mileage, a visual assessment of suspension bushes, coil springs, and chassis for structural rust or fatigue is prudent before committing to purchase.