2002 Mercedes-Benz C 2.6L Petrol · WL52 WHC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive approach to repairs rather than preventative care. The latest test in February 2025 at 72,562 miles passed despite advisories for a worn nearside front suspension arm bush and defective headlamp lenses. This represents a slight improvement from the significant failure in October 2023, where the car presented multiple critical and safety-related defects. The current history suggests that the owner tends to address mechanical faults once they trigger an MOT failure. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,023 miles per year. Data shows a notable gap in usage between November 2021 (68,669 miles) and October 2023 (69,808 miles), where the car covered barely a thousand miles in two years. While low mileage reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, long periods of standing often accelerate the degradation of rubber components and encourage corrosion, which aligns with the structural issues noted in the record. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the structural integrity of the subframe and suspension mounting points. The 2023 failure flagged corrosion on the rear vehicle structure and general suspension corrosion; although structural rigidity was not compromised at that time, rust tends to progress on Mercedes of this era. Additionally, the nearside front suspension arm bush mentioned in 2025 requires physical verification to ensure the wear has not worsened beyond the advisory stage. The braking system also warrants attention, given the previous 2023 failure for thin offside pads and a failing parking brake ratchet.