2008 Mercedes CLK 3.5L Petrol · SOX 711

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care. While the most recent test in May 2026 at 70,574 miles passed with only minor cosmetic defects such as a damaged repeater light, a distorted wheel rim, and a broken exhaust bracket, previous years show a trend of mechanical neglect. The failures in 2024 and 2025 indicate that components are only being addressed once they reach the point of legal failure. At 18 years old, the recorded mileage of 70,574 miles represents a very low annual average of approximately 3,921 miles. This low usage suggests the car has sat for long periods, which often leads to degradation of rubber-based components. Between May 2024 and May 2025, the vehicle covered only 3,657 miles, yet it failed the test due to excessively worn ball joints and tyres. This confirms that the mechanical components are suffering from age-related perish rather than high-mile wear. A buyer must inspect the suspension geometry thoroughly, given the recurring issues with ball joints. The 2025 failure highlighted excessively worn front lower and rear arm ball joints, while the 2024 test noted a perished anti-roll bar linkage dust cover. The consistent history of nearside rear tyres wearing on the inner edge across three consecutive years suggests a persistent alignment issue or a worn bushing that has remained unaddressed, which will continue to prematurely consume new tyres. The braking system requires close attention as the May 2024 test found both front and rear brake pads below the 1.5mm minimum thickness limit. While these were likely replaced since, the buyer should check for uneven wear or thinning discs caused by previous neglect. Additionally, the distorted nearside front road wheel rim noted in May 2026 indicates a significant impact that may have compromised the steering rack or related suspension arms, necessitating a physical check for vibrations or tracking pull.