2008 Mercedes SLK 3.5L Petrol · T4 RRC

The vehicle holds a valid MOT certificate following a test on 31 March 2026 at 84,001 miles. This pass occurred immediately after a failure earlier that day at 83,999 miles, where the tester flagged a malfunction indicator lamp, a supplementary restraint system fault, non-functioning wipers, and a defective horn. While the electrical defects appear resolved, the maintenance trend regarding the undercarriage is concerning. The same worn front lower suspension arm bushes and perishing rear arm bushes noted as advisories during the pass were also present in the failure, indicating the owner deferred this mechanical repair to secure the certificate. Usage has been exceptionally light for an 18-year-old vehicle, averaging under 4,700 miles per year. The odometer rose from 82,764 miles in March 2024 to 83,283 miles in April 2025, covering only 519 miles in that year. A further 718 miles accumulated by the March 2026 test. Such low running often accelerates the degradation of rubber components like suspension bushes and tyres due to lack of lubrication and prolonged static periods, which aligns with the recorded history of perishing rubber and coil spring corrosion. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system. The record shows a fluctuating trend in rear coil spring integrity, moving from corrosion noted in April 2025 to a fractured offside spring causing a failure the following day. Although the springs passed in 2026, the structural history suggests underlying corrosion issues. The persistent advisory regarding worn front lower arm bushes and perishing rear arm bushes points to necessary suspension refurbishment. The April 2025 failure also highlighted neglected tyres, so checking the current tread depth and tyre age is essential given the vehicle's low usage.