2001 Mercedes-Benz C 2.0L Petrol · X198 BUX
2001 Mercedes-Benz C (2.0L, petrol). First registered 09 Feb 2001. Recorded mileage 65,865 miles. MOT valid until 07 Aug 2027. Taxed until 01 Aug 2027.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ C
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Export Allocation
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 07 Aug 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Aug 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 65,865 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
X198 BUX Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 13/07/2026
- 65,865 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (8 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
X198 BUX MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (X198 BUX) between August 2024 and July 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 13 July 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (8 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 14 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Front Electronic stability control warning lamp indicates a fault (7.12 (e))”.
X198 BUX Mileage History
- 09/08/202461,236 mi
- 05/08/202562,940 mi+1,704 mi
- 05/08/202562,940 mi
- 13/07/202665,865 mi+2,925 mi
- 13/07/202665,865 mi
Average of roughly 2,405 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution. While the mileage is exceptionally low for a 2001 model, the recent MOT history reveals recurring electronic and suspension issues that require immediate attention.
Your primary focus should be the electronic health of the vehicle. The most recent MOT failures include a fault with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Engine MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp). Ensure these have been professionally diagnosed and rectified with a full printout of the repair, rather than just a 'cleared' code.
Secondly, investigate the underside of the car. An advisory for 'underside corroded' appeared in 2025, which is a significant concern for a vehicle of this age. Check for structural rust that could lead to future MOT failures. Finally, negotiate on the price if the suspension components (ball joints and anti-roll bar bushes) and the perishing tyres mentioned in the 2026 MOT have not been replaced.
As a 2.0L petrol model from the early 2000s, expect moderate fuel economy, likely averaging around 28-32 mpg in real-world driving. Tax and insurance will be relatively affordable compared to modern performance cars, though insurance groups for older Mercedes models can vary depending on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs for this era of Mercedes are generally predictable, but specialist parts for electronic sensors can be pricey. Budget for regular replacement of consumables like tyres and suspension bushings, which have been a recurring theme in this vehicle's history.
Start by inspecting the tyres; the MOT history shows a long-standing issue with 'cracking or perishing' sidewalls, suggesting the car may sit for long periods. Check the tread depth and look for cracks in the rubber.
Next, perform a thorough inspection of the suspension. The MOT history highlights recurring issues with suspension arm ball joint dust covers and anti-roll bar bushes. Listen for knocks or clunks when driving over uneven surfaces.
Crucially, inspect the underside for the corrosion noted in the 2025 MOT. Look specifically at the subframes and sills. Finally, ensure all warning lights on the dashboard (specifically ESP, ABS, and Engine Management) are completely extinguished when the engine is running.
This 2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a low-mileage example, having covered just 65,865 miles in its 25-year life. However, recent MOT tests show a pattern of electronic faults, including stability control and braking system warnings, alongside persistent tyre and suspension wear. The vehicle presents as a well-used classic that may have suffered from age-related degradation due to infrequent use.
While Mercedes-Benz of this era is generally regarded as robust, electronic sensor failures and age-related rubber degradation are common as these vehicles enter their third decade.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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MERCEDES-BENZ C Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2001 model year cars.
- Valeo radiator gearbox contaminationSerious
Radiator can leak coolant into the transmission fluid, destroying the gearbox.
- M271 timing chain stretchSerious
The 1.8 Kompressor petrol engine uses a timing chain that stretches over time, causing rattling on cold start. In severe cases the chain can jump, destroying the engine.
- Rust on arches, sills and bootlidSerious
W203s are notorious for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills and bootlid edges. Structural corrosion on sills and subframe mounting areas is an MOT failure.
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