2005 Mercedes-Benz C 1.8L Petrol · SG55 LMX

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile characterized by a worsening trend in mechanical and structural integrity. While the most recent test on 6 November 2023 at 175,696 miles resulted in a pass, this followed a series of significant failures in the preceding months. The October 2023 failure was particularly severe, involving major exhaust leaks, corroded brake pipes, and a damaged windscreen. The recurring nature of these issues suggests that repairs are often reactive rather than preventative, with many faults only being addressed immediately before a test rather than being managed through regular servicing. The mileage accumulation appears consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,366 miles per year. The record shows a steady progression from 78,686 miles in December 2016 to 175,696 miles in late 2023. However, the data becomes sparse between December 2017 and January 2019, and again between 2020 and 2021. This lack of continuous documentation during certain periods makes it difficult to verify the consistency of maintenance during those intervals. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking system and exhaust. The MOT history shows a chronic pattern of corroded brake pipes, specifically on the nearside rear and offside front, which appeared in almost every test from 2020 through 2023. The exhaust system has also shown persistent issues, progressing from minor leaks in 2021 to a major gas leak and failed emissions readings by late 2023. These recurring failures indicate that the underlying corrosion and component degradation may be more extensive than the certificates suggest. Suspension and steering components also require close scrutiny. The tester flagged multiple failures regarding track rod ends, anti-roll bar linkages, and suspension arm ball joints across several years, including 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. Given the history of worn bushes and damaged dust covers, the vehicle's handling and structural stability should be verified. Additionally, the recent advisory regarding worn tyres on both rear wheels suggests that consumable maintenance has been neglected, which may be a broader indicator of the vehicle's overall upkeep.