2012 Mercedes-Benz C220 Executiv SE CDI Blue-CY A 2.1L Diesel · UJZ 1014

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 November 2025 resulted in a pass with no advisories or defects recorded, suggesting that the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements on that occasion. However, it is worth noting that this pass was achieved only eleven days after a prior test on 4 November 2025 failed without any defect details being captured in the official record; such an outcome often indicates an administrative or minor issue resolved immediately prior to retest rather than a significant mechanical defect, but a prospective buyer should still request sight of the actual failure document or VTS test number to confirm the precise cause. Looking at the broader trend, the vehicle alternates between pass and fail entries without any recurring component failures, advisories, or pattern of deterioration, which indicates a broadly stable maintenance profile rather than an improving or worsening one. The absence of advisories across all recorded tests does, however, require careful interpretation given the age and mileage of the car, as it suggests either meticulous upkeep or the possibility that advisories were not consistently recorded or addressed. With 95,150 miles accumulated over approximately 14 years, this C220 is doing close to the UK average annual mileage of around 6,800 miles, which is consistent with typical commuter or mixed-use patterns rather than heavy motorway work or long periods of standing. The mileage progression between tests appears reasonably steady rather than showing unusual gaps or sudden accumulation, which is reassuring as both extremes carry their own risks; very low annual mileage tends to promote corrosion from infrequent use and fluid degradation, while very high mileage accelerates wear on timing chains, turbocharger components, and dual-mass flywheels, all of which are pertinent considerations on the OM651 diesel fitted to this model. The relatively average usage rate means consumable wear should be proportionate and predictable, but diesel-specific components such as the diesel particulate filter, EGR valve, and turbocharger actuator should still be regarded as high-priority inspection items at this age and mileage. For a physical appraisal, a buyer should commence with a careful walkaround focusing on the condition of the tyres, particularly the sidewalls which are prone to perishing and UV cracking on a vehicle of this age regardless of tread depth; verify that all four tyres are of matching brand, size, and speed rating, and check the wheels for kerb damage that may indicate careless prior use. The 12-volt battery and the auxiliary battery fitted to many Blue Efficiency models for stop-start functionality should be load-tested if accessible, as battery failure is a common cause of non-starts in older Mercedes diesels. Inspect the underside of the vehicle and the wheel arches for corrosion, paying particular attention to the rear arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, and place the car on a ramp if possible to check for any signs of fluid weeping from the oil sump, turbocharger oil feed lines, and the OM651 injector leak-back lines, which are a known source of diesel smell and oil contamination. The brake discs should be examined for lipping and surface corrosion, and a firm brake pedal application with the vehicle stationary will reveal any binding calipers, a frequent issue on cars that have seen mixed urban and standing use. During the test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking noises from the suspension, particularly over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as worn lower control arm bushes, drop links, and coil springs are common advisories on C-Class models at this mileage; uneven tyre wear on the inside shoulders would confirm alignment or suspension geometry issues. Evaluate the transmission for smooth and decisive gearchanges from the automatic gearbox, and on the diesel engine listen for any rattle from the timing chain area on cold start, which may indicate stretched guides and tensioner wear, alongside any excessive smoke from the exhaust that would point toward turbocharger or DPF problems. On the road, monitor for any loss of power, limp mode activation, or EGR-related warning lights, and verify that the stop-start function operates correctly if equipped. Given that the MOT history is clean of recorded advisories, it is all the more important that the buyer satisfies themselves on these age and mileage-related wear items independently, and a comprehensive service history confirming regular oil and filter changes at manufacturer-specified intervals using the correct MB 229.51 or 229.52 specification oil will be essential to long-term reliability of this diesel powertrain.