2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 1.8L Petrol · XM53 NDM

The Mercedes-Benz CLK presents a complex roadworthiness profile, having passed its most recent inspection in June 2026 at 85,877 miles with no defects recorded. This follows a period of clean results in 2025 and 2026, suggesting that recent mechanical concerns were addressed. However, the historical data reveals a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than preventative care. Between 2022 and 2024, the vehicle consistently flagged for issues related to braking components and suspension geometry, indicating that parts were often only replaced once they reached a failure threshold. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 85,877 miles represents an average of approximately 5,050 miles per year. This low usage often leads to age-related degradation of rubber and fluid components, which is evident in the record. In the 2023 failure at 82,037 miles, the tester identified multiple critical issues including rear tyres below the legal tread limit and a fractured nearside coil spring. The presence of perishing tyres in 2023 further supports the theory that the vehicle sat stationary for extended periods, which can lead to dry rot in the sidewalls and flat spotting on the tyres. The history shows recurring faults with the front suspension and braking. The nearside front track rod end was flagged for play in 2022, 2023, and 2024, showing a persistent issue that was not fully resolved until more recent tests. Front brake discs and pads were also noted as worn or pitted across multiple years, likely due to corrosion from low-mileage use. While the 2026 test is clean, a prospective buyer should specifically inspect the condition of the suspension bushes and the integrity of the exhaust mounts, as the 2023 and 2024 records indicate these areas are prone to failure on this specific example.