2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG C 43 Night ED Prem + 4M A 3.0L Petrol · PF22 CFJ

The latest MOT test results reveal a critical failure at the 2025-05-07 inspection, with both the near-side and offside front tyres exhibiting dangerous structural bulges indicative of tyre separation or partial failure, which are classified under DVSA standard 5.2.3 (d) (ii). This failure is categorised as "Dangerous Dangerous," meaning both tyres failed the roadworthiness test simultaneously, and the vehicle would not have been permitted to continue on the road. The prior MOT in March 2026 passed without any recorded defects, suggesting a potential interval between inspections where the tyre condition deteriorated significantly. While the intervening test was clean, the presence of two consecutive failures—one in May 2025 and none in the following 11 months—indicates a concerning maintenance trend, with the tyre condition likely worsening over time rather than improving. The seller should address this immediately, as tyre failure can lead to catastrophic loss of control, especially at higher speeds, and is a primary cause of road accidents. The recorded mileage of 30,604 miles for a 2022 AMG C43 NIGHT ED PREM + 4M A reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,651 miles, which is relatively typical for a vehicle of this age and performance class. Such mileage suggests a balanced driving profile, though the presence of long periods between MOT tests—particularly the gap between the failed inspection in May 2025 and the subsequent clean test in March 2026—could imply either infrequent use or a delay in scheduling. However, the tyre failures are not directly tied to mileage alone but rather to the structural integrity of the rubber compound and bead seating, which can degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. If the vehicle was driven regularly, the tyre condition may have been exacerbated by dynamic stresses, such as aggressive cornering or high-speed driving, which accelerate wear and failure. The seller should confirm the vehicle’s actual usage patterns, as prolonged idling or infrequent movement can also contribute to tyre perishing or uneven wear patterns, further compromising safety. Given the critical tyre failures recorded in the MOT history, the prospective buyer must prioritise immediate action to rectify the vehicle’s roadworthiness. The bulges in both front tyres suggest that the rubber has lost its structural integrity, often due to internal separation of the carcass plies or bead failure, which can occur from prolonged exposure to heat, mechanical stress, or poor storage conditions. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noises, such as a sudden loss of grip or a sharp vibration that increases with speed, which may indicate a tyre about to fail. Visually inspect the tyres for any signs of cracking, bulges, or uneven tread wear, and ensure the vehicle is lifted for a thorough check of the bead areas. The seller should replace the front tyres immediately, ideally with new or high-quality reclaimed tyres from a reputable supplier, and consider having the vehicle’s suspension and alignment checked to prevent further stress on the tyres. Additionally, the buyer should request a detailed service history, including tyre rotations and replacements, to assess whether the vehicle was properly maintained between inspections. For the buyer’s practical inspection beyond the MOT, the vehicle’s age and the documented tyre failures necessitate a comprehensive mechanical and safety audit. Given the 2022 model year and the 30,604 miles, the suspension components—such as coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes—should be inspected for signs of excessive wear or failure, as these can compound tyre stress and lead to handling issues. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, binding calipers, or worn brake discs, all of which can exacerbate tyre failure risks. The brake system should be tested for any signs of pulsation or shudder during braking, which could signal warped discs or soft brake pads, and the brake fluid should be checked for contamination or moisture, as this can degrade performance over time. The engine bay and undercarriage should be inspected for fluid leaks, particularly from the oil, coolant, and brake systems, as these can indicate failing seals or hoses that may have contributed to the tyre failures. Lastly, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service book for any scheduled fluid changes, such as the brake fluid flush or coolant replacement, which are critical for maintaining system integrity, especially in a high-performance vehicle where fluid degradation can accelerate component failure.