2004 Mercedes-Benz C 2.0L Petrol · RV04 YSJ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-12-04 at 72,599 miles confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded across the past five annual tests. This suggests a stable maintenance pattern, though the absence of any warnings—even for consumables like tyres or brakes—is unusual for a vehicle of this age. The only anomaly in the record is the duplicate entry for 2022, where the car was tested twice on the same date with identical mileage, indicating either a clerical error or a rare re-test without issues. No recurring faults have been logged, which implies either meticulous upkeep or that critical components have been replaced privately without MOT reporting. The recorded mileage of 72,599 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 3,300 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than average for a vehicle of this class. The consistency of mileage increments—rising by just 203 miles between tests in 2023 and 2024, and 293 miles between 2024 and 2025—suggests the car has spent extended periods stationary rather than in regular use. This could mitigate some wear on high-mileage components like suspension bushes or drivetrain fluids, but it also raises questions about fluid degradation or corrosion risks from prolonged inactivity. The lack of advisories on emissions or structural integrity in recent tests does not preclude hidden issues such as seized wheel bearings or degraded coil springs, which might not manifest until driven. Given the vehicle’s age and the absence of MOT-reported faults, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear coil springs and bushes, which are prone to fatigue in this model. The brakes, while not flagged, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, as older Mercedes-Benz systems can develop sticking pistons or warped discs over time. Examine the underbody for corrosion, especially around the sills and wheel arches, as low mileage does not negate environmental degradation. Finally, verify the service history for fluid changes—engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—since prolonged inactivity can accelerate contamination or degradation in these systems.