2010 Mercedes-Benz C 1.6L Petrol · SP10 MPF

The most recent DVSA test on this Mercedes-Benz C-Class took place on 3 January 2026 and resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, representing a positive current roadworthy status. The history shows a generally stable and reassuring maintenance trend, with the vehicle passing without comment in January 2023, January 2024, and January 2025. The single anomaly is a fail recorded on 27 December 2025, just one week before the subsequent pass on 3 January 2026; the absence of any defect details on the failed entry suggests a straightforward rectification such as a bulb replacement, number plate issue, or a rectification that was made immediately and not re-tested as a partial failure. This pattern, combined with the clean subsequent pass, indicates that the vehicle has been consistently maintained to MOT standard and that there are no recurring structural or mechanical defects appearing on the official record. With 96,829 miles recorded over approximately 16 years, this C-Class is averaging around 6,050 miles per year, which sits squarely within typical parameters for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT record or signs of dramatically inconsistent annual usage, suggesting the mileage shown is genuine and the car has been in regular service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. At this combined age and mileage, the mechanical wear profile moves beyond standard service items into the territory of mid-life component renewal, particularly on suspension, cooling, and drivetrain items, but the consistency of testing indicates the keeper has remained attentive to its roadworthiness. Given the clean advisory record, prospective buyers should focus on age-related deterioration that an MOT does not necessarily capture. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on vehicles kept outdoors or those with low annual mileage where the rubber hardens with age rather than wearing through tread depth. Check the production date on the sidewall and avoid tyres older than around six years regardless of remaining tread. Equally, inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion, particularly around the outer edges; while light oxidation is normal and will clear with use, heavy pitting or a lipped edge indicates the discs may be approaching their wear limit. Confirm that all four calipers are releasing correctly, as a seized caliper from standing will manifest as one wheel running hotter than the others and uneven pad wear. A 16-year-old vehicle with this mileage profile also warrants attention to time-served components irrespective of their functional state on test day. The 12V battery is very likely due for renewal; Mercedes-Benz auxiliary batteries and main batteries in this era typically last five to seven years, so a fresh unit fitted with documentation is reassuring, whereas an original or aged battery risks sudden failure. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) all degrade on a calendar basis rather than mileage, so verify the service book for evidence of recent fluid exchanges rather than relying solely on the MOT pass. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps, which would point to worn control arm bushes or top mount deterioration common on this chassis, and feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which would suggest disc warping. Finally, inspect the underside and wheel arches for any signs of structural corrosion, as the W204 C-Class is generally robust but can develop surface rust in salt-affected areas, and ensure the exhaust system is secure and free from blowing joints.