2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 2.6L Petrol · SO03 RKA

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK shows a stable roadworthiness trend over the past three years, with all tests—including the most recent on 2025-06-13 at 90,530 miles—passing without defects. The absence of advisories or recurring failures suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a basic level, though no evidence of proactive servicing or major component replacements is visible. The final pass in June 2025 was just over a year ago, which is acceptable for a vehicle of this age, though it now requires another MOT before the next test window. No structural or mechanical issues have been formally recorded, but the lack of advisory notes means critical components may not have been specifically inspected beyond the MOT’s minimum standards. The recorded mileage of 90,530 miles over 23 years—approximately 3,936 miles annually—indicates unusually light use for a vehicle of this age, which could imply prolonged periods of storage or occasional driving. The gap between the 2022 failure (75,280 miles) and subsequent pass (75,290 miles) is suspicious, as the mileage barely changed before retesting, suggesting either a clerical error or a vehicle that was not driven between tests. This pattern raises questions about whether the car was moved at all during that period, which could accelerate wear from static conditions. The consistent 12-month intervals between tests from 2023 onwards suggest regular MOT compliance, but no data confirms whether servicing or repairs were conducted outside these mandatory checks. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that are not routinely checked during MOTs. The suspension—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, as these are common failure points in older Mercedes models with low mileage. Brake systems, including calipers, pads, and discs, warrant close scrutiny, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as moisture can accelerate corrosion. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should be inspected for signs of rust or weakening, as these are often missed in basic MOT tests. The exhaust system and emissions controls should also be checked, as catalytic converter failure is a frequent issue in this model range. Finally, fluid levels—brakes, power steering, and coolant—should be verified, as leaks or degradation are not typically flagged in MOT records.