2011 Mitsubishi Colt 1.3L Petrol · FH11 AAJ

The most recent DVSA test on 20 July 2026 resulted in a failure, which represents a clear deterioration in the vehicle's roadworthiness trend when viewed against the preceding three tests, all of which passed. The 2023 and mid-2024 tests were clean with no advisories or defects recorded, suggesting the car was being maintained to a satisfactory standard during that period. However, the most recent examination escalated the previously noted minor wear on the front suspension ball joints and track rod end dust covers to major failure items, indicating that protective rubber boots have now deteriorated beyond serviceable condition and are permitting contamination of the steering and suspension joints. The recurring nature of advisories regarding the front anti-roll bar linkage across both 2025 and 2026 also points to progressive wear in the front suspension and anti-roll bar assembly that has not been addressed. With a recorded mileage of 79,523 miles over approximately fifteen years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 5,300 miles annually, which is well below typical usage for a car of this age. While low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, it raises concerns regarding components that degrade through age and standing rather than use. Rubber boots, seals, brake discs, and anti-roll bar bushes can all deteriorate from disuse, and the recent MOT history bears this out, with the recorded defects concentrated around perished rubber gaiters and corroded suspension components. There is no evidence in the DVSA records of rapid mileage accumulation or extended gaps between tests, but the low overall figure should prompt careful inspection of items affected by calendar ageing. Given the failure items and advisories on the most recent test, a prospective buyer should approach this Colt with the expectation that remedial work is required before it can be considered roadworthy. The front lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers and outer track rod end ball joint dust covers have been classified as major defects, meaning they must be replaced and the joints themselves assessed for wear or play. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over bumps, particularly at low speed, and pay attention to any vagueness, wandering, or knocking through the steering, all of which could indicate that the joints themselves have deteriorated beyond safe limits. The advisories regarding the front anti-roll bar pin or bush and corroded front suspension components suggest that the anti-roll bar drop links and bushes should be inspected for free play, and the corroded suspension parts may require cleaning, treatment, or replacement depending on structural integrity. The 2024 failure for an excessively worn offside front brake disc is also worth noting, as this may indicate that the caliper has been binding or that the disc has worn unevenly, and a careful check of brake feel, any pulling to one side under braking, and the condition of the remaining discs is recommended. Beyond addressing the immediate MOT failures, a thorough physical inspection should be carried out given the vehicle's low annual mileage and fifteen-year age. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as tyres older than six years can degrade even with adequate tread depth, and the production date should be confirmed via the DOT stamp. Brake calipers may have seized or partially bound from periods of standing, which can manifest as dragging, uneven tyre wear, or a tendency for the vehicle to pull, and the discs should be checked for significant corrosion on the outer edges and inner friction surfaces. The 12-volt battery should be load tested, as batteries typically last between five and seven years and may be due for replacement. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox or transmission oil should be considered for replacement on a time-based rather than mileage-based schedule, with brake fluid particularly prone to moisture absorption that reduces braking performance. Finally, the timing belt or chain interval, exhaust system condition for corrosion or blowing, and the state of all underbody and wheel arch components should be verified, as standing vehicles in damp conditions are prone to hidden corrosion that may not be visible without raising the car on a ramp.