2018 Mercedes-Benz C 1.5L Petrol · OV68 LBX

The latest MOT test conducted on 28 October 2025 resulted in a pass, maintaining a trend of passing the annual inspection, though the history reveals a recurring pattern of tyre-related issues. While the vehicle has consistently passed its annual roadworthiness checks, the presence of repeated advisories regarding tyre condition and edge wear suggests that the vehicle may have been subject to inconsistent tyre maintenance or potentially underlying suspension geometry issues. The failure in 2024 due to wiper performance and the 2023 failure due to a damaged tyre indicate that while the vehicle is generally well-maintained, the owner has occasionally allowed consumable items to degrade beyond the legal threshold before addressing them. With a recorded mileage of 28,627 miles over eight years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 3,578 miles per annum, which is significantly lower than the national average. This low-mileage profile suggests the vehicle has likely been used for short, intermittent journeys rather than consistent motorway driving. From a mechanical standpoint, while low mileage often correlates with less wear on drivetrain components like the engine and transmission, it can also lead to specific issues associated with long periods of standing, such as the degradation of rubber seals, the potential for seized brake components due to lack of use, and the accelerated perishing of tyre sidewalls regardless of tread depth. Given the recurring advisories for tyre wear and damage, a primary focus during your inspection must be the current state of all four tyres. You should inspect the sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or bulges, and ensure that the tread wear is even across the full width of the contact patch. If you notice the vehicle pulling to one side during a test drive, or if there is any vibration through the steering wheel at speed, this may indicate that the previous tyre issues were symptomatic of poor wheel alignment or worn suspension bushes. Listen carefully for any knocking or clunking noises over uneven road surfaces, as these are common indicators of worn anti-roll bar links or control arm bushings that may have been overlooked during routine inspections. Because the vehicle has seen limited annual use, you must also verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance has been carried out. Fluids such as brake fluid and engine oil degrade over time even when the vehicle is stationary, so confirm that these have been replaced according to the manufacturer's calendar schedule rather than just mileage intervals. Check the brake discs for excessive surface corrosion or pitting, which often occurs when a car is left standing for extended periods, and test the brakes for any signs of binding or shuddering during firm application. Finally, ensure the 12V battery holds a strong charge, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from premature battery failure due to the alternator not having sufficient time to maintain a full charge during short, infrequent trips.