2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 3.0L Diesel · RV62 FXR

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a clear and worsening trend regarding underbody corrosion. The most recent test in October 2025 at 106,791 miles identified significant corrosion across all four brake pipes, which were also obscured by grease or material. This represents a progression from the previous two tests in 2024 and 2023, where only the front pipes were flagged. While the car continues to pass, the spread of degradation across the entire braking system suggests that environmental damage is active and not being proactively addressed. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,600 miles per year. There is a notable period of lower use between 2015 and 2019, where the car covered only 27,000 miles in four years. However, usage increased significantly in recent years, with nearly 28,000 miles recorded between November 2022 and October 2025. This increase in mileage likely correlates with the appearance of wear on rubber-based components and mechanical joints seen in the later advisory notes. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system and front suspension. The recurring reports of corroded brake pipes indicate that the metal lines are reaching the end of their functional life and may require replacement if the thinning is severe. Additionally, the 2022 failure for worn suspension arm bushes and the subsequent 2024 advisory for play in the ball joints suggest that the front-end geometry is beginning to show signs of fatigue. The inspector should also check for signs of structural rust on the chassis points where the brake pipes are mounted, as the grease-covered pipes often mask deeper structural issues.