2014 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.1L Diesel · WF14 XMT

A serious rear‑suspension failure dominates this car’s MOT history – both rear coil springs were recorded as fractured and broken in the August 2025 test, prompting a failure that was rectified before a re‑test the following day, after which the vehicle passed with only a front lower suspension arm advisory. The latest August 2026 MOT shows a clean pass with no defects, indicating that the immediate failure has been addressed, yet the lingering front‑arm wear remains an open item to monitor. At 63,694 mi for a twelve‑year‑old 2014 SLK the annual average is roughly 5,300 mi, well below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage can mean reduced cumulative wear on drivetrain and brake components, but it also suggests periods of limited use where ageing of rubber and metal parts can occur without the benefit of regular operating cycles. The MOT record shows no large mileage jumps between tests, reinforcing a consistent, light‑use pattern rather than any hidden high‑kilometre periods. Prospective buyers should focus the test drive on the suspension. Listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any sag or uneven rebound in the rear, and check for play in the front steering rack that could be aggravated by the worn lower arm bush. Examine the front lower arm and its bush for excessive movement or looseness, and verify that the replacement rear springs are securely seated and free of corrosion. Tyre inspection is also essential: advisories in 2021, 2023 and 2025 flagged front and rear tyres close to the legal tread limit and a nail in the off‑side front tyre, so confirm that all four tyres have adequate depth, uniform wear and no puncture damage. Finally, although no brake or exhaust faults have been recorded, a thorough check of the braking system is prudent – ensure the pedal feels firm, there is no pulsation, and that discs are free of scoring. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the chassis and suspension mounting points for any surface rust that could compromise structural integrity. A qualified mechanic’s detailed suspension and tyre assessment before purchase will verify that the earlier coil‑spring failure has been properly remedied and that the remaining advisory items are not indicative of deeper wear.