2005 Mercedes SLK 1.8L Petrol · P6 LDH

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status, but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than preventative approach. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 109,369 miles resulted in a pass, it flagged an oil leak and slight play in the nearside front wheel bearing. These issues were previously identified during a failure just one month prior at 109,205 miles. The persistence of these faults suggests that mechanical components are only addressed when they reach a failure threshold rather than through consistent servicing. At 21 years old, the recorded mileage of 109,369 miles represents a low average of approximately 5,200 miles per year. This low usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components due to age, which is evident in the record. Between September 2024 and September 2025, the car covered only 3,534 miles, yet suffered multiple tyre failures for structural damage and exposed cords. This pattern suggests the vehicle may sit for long periods, causing tyres to perish and seals to dry despite low mileage. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking and suspension systems, as the record shows a history of neglect in these areas. The tester flagged excessive corrosion on the nearside rear brake pipe and poor parking brake efficiency in 2024, while a worn front shock absorber was noted in 2023. The recurring oil leak also warrants investigation as it may stem from a simple gasket. Furthermore, the nearside front wheel bearing play noted in 2025 requires verification to ensure the wear has not progressed to a point that could affect the hub or steering assembly.