2009 Mercedes CLS 3.0L Diesel · V11 JCL

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend in mechanical neglect. While it passed its latest test in April 2026 at 150,464 miles, this followed a failure just three days prior where multiple critical components were identified. The transition from a clean record in 2022 to a series of structural and safety-related failures suggests that the current owner only addresses faults when forced by a tester rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 150,464 miles over 17 years, the CLS averages approximately 8,850 miles per year, which sits well within typical parameters for a luxury saloon of this age. There is a significant gap in data between August 2022 and July 2024, during which the vehicle covered nearly 10,000 miles without an inspection. The recent surge of 10,000 miles between July 2024 and April 2026 indicates a period of higher use that has accelerated the wear observed on the suspension and braking hardware. A buyer must scrutinise the entire braking and steering systems, as the record consistently flags corrosion on the offside front and both rear brake pipes. The presence of grease on these pipes is often an attempt to hide leaks or degradation, which warrants a physical inspection. Furthermore, the discovery of play in the steering rack inner joints and excessively worn ball joints in early 2026 indicates the front-end geometry is reaching the end of its functional life. The fractured rear coil springs noted in the 2026 failure further point to aged rubber and metal components that are beginning to fatigue. The history of failing on tyres with exposed cords and illegal tread depths in 2024 suggests a lack of basic consumable upkeep. Any in-person inspection should check for structural rust around the exhaust mountings and the integrity of the suspension arms, as these areas have shown issues. Given the recurring nature of the brake pipe and steering faults, the vehicle likely requires significant immediate investment to ensure it remains roadworthy beyond the current test date.