2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC 2.1L Diesel · OY59 HRC

A persistent theme of steering‑rack joint play and front wheel‑bearing movement runs through the MOT record, compounded by recurring brake‑pipe corrosion and tyre‑ply exposure, signalling a vehicle that has required repeated attention to core safety components. The latest MOT on 14 January 2026 was passed, yet it still listed advisories for front brake‑disc wear, slight play in both front wheel bearings and continued play in the steering‑rack inner joint, indicating that the underlying wear pattern has not been fully resolved. With 230,149 mi recorded on a 2009 model, the average annual accumulation is roughly 13,500 mi, well above the typical usage rate for a car of this age. The mileage figure, combined with a relatively continuous MOT history (no gaps longer than a year), suggests the vehicle has been driven extensively rather than sitting idle for long periods. High mileage accelerates wear on consumables such as brake discs, tyre tread, suspension bushings and steering components, meaning those items are likely approaching the end of their service life and may require imminent replacement. When you inspect the car, give priority to the steering system: feel for any looseness or clunking when turning the wheel at low speed and listen for knocking over bumps, which could indicate the inner rack joints are nearing failure. Test the front wheel bearings by applying lateral pressure to the wheels while the car is lifted; any gritty or rough movement confirms the slight play noted in the MOTs. Examine the front brake discs for scoring or thinning beyond the advisory level, and check the condition of the brake‑pipe sections for corrosion or grease build‑up, as these have been flagged repeatedly. A thorough visual inspection of the rear and front tyres is essential – look for any exposed cords, cuts or nails, and measure tread depth; the recent dangerous tyre defects suggest the current set may be close to the legal limit or already compromised. Finally, verify the operation of the off‑side headlamp main beam and the nearside side‑repeater, both recorded as failed in 2023, and confirm the passenger‑door lock mechanism works smoothly from the interior. Inspect the anti‑roll‑bar bushings and front shock absorbers for any oil mist or excessive play, as prior advisories highlighted slight wear. A test‑drive should include a quiet, steady cruise to detect any steering pull, followed by gentle braking to sense pedal feel and any judder that could stem from the worn brake discs or corroded pipework. Addressing these specific items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the remaining service life and any imminent out‑of‑pocket costs.