2012 Mercedes-Benz C 1.8L Petrol · W4 CMC

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class presents a mixed maintenance picture. Its most recent MOT on 14 January 2026 at 117,081 miles passed, yet the tester flagged an offside rear service brake binding, indicating a caliper or handbrake mechanism is sticking. This is a minor but active fault. Looking back, the trend is not clean. A failure on 13 January 2025 at 113,742 miles revealed significant front brake disc wear, imbalance, and multiple split suspension ball joint dust covers. While subsequent tests in 2025 and 2026 passed, the record shows a pattern of neglecting brake and suspension component wear until it triggers a failure, rather than proactive servicing. The vehicle has covered 117,081 miles over fourteen years, averaging roughly 8,363 miles per year, which is typical for its age. Mileage accumulation has been steady, with no alarming gaps suggesting long periods of disuse or sudden high-mileage use. The annual tests from 2023 to 2026 show consistent yearly mileage growth, confirming regular use rather than a parked vehicle. Buyers should focus their inspection on the braking system and front suspension. The recurring brake issues, from corroded rear pipes in January 2025 to worn discs and imbalance at the failure, then a binding rear caliper in January 2026, suggest the braking system has not been maintained to a high standard. A thorough check of all brake discs, pads, calipers, and flexible hoses is essential. The split anti-roll bar and suspension ball joint dust covers flagged in 2025 mean dirt and water have likely entered those joints. A buyer must test for play or wear in the front lower ball joints and anti-roll bar links, as contaminated joints fail prematurely. While the structural corrosion noted on the rear brake pipe was a one-off advisory, underbody rust should still be inspected, particularly around suspension mounting points and brake lines.