2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA 2.1L Diesel · SA68 VLS

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA presents a stable and improving mechanical picture at its most recent MOT on 6 November 2025, where it passed at 100,091 miles with zero defects recorded. This clean sheet is significant because it follows a failure just twelve months earlier, indicating the previous owner addressed the identified faults promptly. The maintenance trend over the last three years shows a clear pattern of recurring wear items being flagged and then resolved, which is typical of a vehicle that is being actively repaired rather than neglected. The mileage accumulation tells a story of sustained high use. Between the September 2022 test at 51,879 miles and the November 2025 test at 100,091 miles, the car covered 48,212 miles in just over three years, averaging roughly 15,500 miles annually during that period. That is well above the typical UK average and explains the frequency of consumable wear items appearing on the record. The jump from 69,308 miles in November 2023 to 85,799 miles in November 2024 alone accounts for 16,491 miles in a single year, confirming this is a high-mileage vehicle driven hard and often. The recurring theme across the MOT history is rear brake disc wear. The tester flagged worn rear discs in November 2023 at 69,308 miles and again in November 2024 at 85,799 miles, with the latter test noting pitting and scoring. Combined with the November 2024 failure for a cut offside front tyre reaching the ply, this suggests the car has been driven in a manner that stresses braking components and tyres without always keeping up with preventive replacement. A buyer should inspect the rear brake discs and pads carefully for uneven wear, lipping, or heat damage, and check whether the most recent clean MOT reflects fresh components or simply a lenient assessment. Tyre condition is another area demanding attention. The record shows tyre wear appearing consistently across multiple axles and positions, including inner edge wear on the offside rear and outer edge wear on both fronts. Inner edge wear often points to tracking or suspension geometry issues, particularly worn suspension bushes or damaged wishbone joints. A buyer should have the suspension and steering components inspected for play, and verify the tyre sizes and specifications match Mercedes-Benz recommendations. Given the high mileage and repeated tyre-related advisories, there is a reasonable chance the suspension will need attention in the near term.