2012 Mercedes-Benz C 1.8L Petrol · VN12 XEX

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-06-16, just 11 days prior to today, confirms it passed without defects, though it had narrowly failed on 2026-06-09 for a parking brake efficiency issue—suggesting a recent rectification. Over the past three years, the maintenance record reveals a concerning pattern of recurring corrosion and brake system neglect. The front brake pipes were repeatedly flagged for grease contamination and corrosion from 2023 through 2025, while the offside rear coil spring showed persistent corrosion in 2024 and 2025. These faults indicate long-term disregard for fluid leaks or seal failures, which could escalate into hydraulic brake failure or suspension instability. The recent parking brake failure further underscores the need for verification that this critical system has been properly adjusted or replaced. The mileage progression of 92,098 miles today, averaging around 6,578 miles annually, aligns with typical usage for this vehicle’s age. There are no abrupt jumps or prolonged stagnation periods, though the 2025-2026 interval shows a slight acceleration from 4,133 miles in 2025 to 5,175 miles in 2026—a modest increase that doesn’t suggest aggressive driving but may have contributed to the parking brake failure. The most notable gap is between the 2024 and 2025 tests, where mileage rose by 4,271 miles in a year, yet no additional defects were recorded beyond the persistent corrosion issues. This inconsistency implies either intermittent maintenance or a lack of proactive checks during that period. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the brake system, particularly the front brake pipes and calipers, to confirm there are no ongoing leaks or corrosion beneath the grease deposits. The rear suspension’s offside coil spring should be visually assessed for further corrosion or deformation, as repeated failures suggest structural weakening. The parking brake mechanism must be tested for proper engagement and binding, especially if the vehicle has been driven since the recent failure. Registration plate deterioration, while non-critical, warrants replacement to avoid future advisory notes. Finally, the exhaust system should be checked for leaks or rust, as emissions-related faults are often overlooked but can indicate broader neglect of fluid-tight seals.