2007 Mercedes CL 6.2L Petrol · SOU 325

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile with a maintenance trend that suggests reactive neglect despite its low mileage. While it passed its most recent test in August 2025 at 53,701 miles, this pass followed a significant failure just eleven days prior. The tester noted play in the front lower suspension arm ball joints and front wheel bearings, alongside fluctuating front service brakes. The presence of aftermarket plastic undertrays and covers that restricted a full inspection of the chassis is a red flag, potentially masking underlying structural corrosion or fluid leaks from critical mounting points. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 19-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,826 miles per year to reach 53,701 miles. However, such low usage often correlates with the degradation of rubber components rather than mechanical wear. This is evident in the 2024 test at 52,570 miles, where all four tyres showed signs of perishing and cracking, indicating the car likely sits for long periods. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests shows minimal movement of only 1,847 miles, which increases the likelihood of dry-rot in seals and hoses. A buyer must prioritize a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The recurring issues with ball joint play and wheel bearings indicate that components are reaching the end of their functional life. The 2023 failure involving an ABS fault and an engine management warning light suggests a history of ignoring electrical and sensor faults until they forced a failure. Before purchasing, a technician should ensure the plastic undertrays are removed to inspect the structural integrity of the subframes for rust, as the MOT record explicitly states these covers prevented a clear view of the underside.