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As a result of excessive play in the front offside control arm, my W204 C63 recently failed a MOT at a main dealer. According to them, it will be OK after it's replaced; however, they don't have it in store, and the estimated time of arrival for the order is uncertain (it may be weeks or months). A2043300207 is the part number. I was informed that they will not accept an aftermarket component. The part appears to be out of stock and with no estimated time of arrival (ETA) on back order, according to another key dealer I spoke with, thus it appears that the main dealers are currently unable to get it.


Just curious as to the forum's opinion on my alternatives here. Is it too late to unlock my car till the part arrives? I thought I read somewhere a long time ago that you could drive cars to MOT stations if you had an appointment, so I'm wondering if it's possible to find an aftermarket replacement and then take it to another shop to have it fitted.

An independent contractor, my client began contacting various dealers on his own. He tracked one down and presented it to me. Consider conducting a search.

You should not be discouraged from sourcing and having installed a non-MB provided part simply because the dealer refuses to do so. Within 10 days, you have the option to come back for a second opinion or seek out an alternative MOT. These parts are frequently supplied by Lemforder as the original equipment manufacturer.

In order to make it to a scheduled appointment at a testing facility, it is legal to drive with an expired MOT.


But, if you are pulled over and the car is determined to be hazardous, you can still face charges.

But if that had happened, the automobile would have failed with a "dangerous" rather than a "major" failure...so he's good to leave. Plus, he might be finishing early, so the previous MOT could be good for a few more days. The idea that your previous MOT is null and void in the event of a failure is absurd. Although there are testers that would say anything to gain a job!

This past week, it was serviced and MOT'd at the neighbourhood main dealer. This year's MOT is up for renewal today. Look at the MOT history at https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/. It says to fix the significant issues right away.
Severely worn ball joint on the offside of the front suspension arm (5.3.4 (a) (i))


According to the main dealers I dealt with today, there is no estimated time of arrival (ETA) and it is on back order. However, if I place an order today, I should receive more information on Friday. Independents have also been my search partners, but everyone I've talked to has given me the same answer. Lemforder will be reviewed.

I mean, it's not like the part is unusual or anything; they wear out on every car. Still, it's hardly fantastic service. Very subpar assistance, Mr. Mercedes.

As compared to the standard W204, the C63 has a less narrow track. The forearms are unique. As far as I'm aware, there isn't an aftermarket substitute.