2002 MITSUBISHI SPACE STAR1.6L Petrol

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend characterized by recurring structural and corrosion-related issues. While the 2021-09-21 test at 84,041 miles resulted in a pass, the history shows a pattern of significant failures regarding structural integrity. The most recent recorded data is now several years out of date, as the last MOT entry was in September 2021. This lack of recent testing is a major red flag for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the previous failures involving critical components. The recorded mileage of 84,041 miles is notably low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 3,500 miles per year. This low usage pattern is evident in the slow progression of mileage between 2018 and 2021, where the car covered less than 8,000 miles over three years. Such low annual mileage often suggests long periods of inactivity, which frequently accelerates the degradation of rubber components and promotes corrosion in areas where moisture can settle. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's chassis and suspension mounting points. The records show a persistent struggle with corrosion, specifically the nearside rear lower suspension component mounting, which was flagged as excessively corroded and reducing structural strength during the September 2021 failure. The history also indicates ongoing issues with brake pipe corrosion dating back to at least 2013 and 2015. Any sign of surface rust on the brake lines or mounting areas should be treated as a high-priority concern. Further attention should be directed toward the suspension bushings and ball joints. The tester noted a severely deteriorated nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover in 2021, and various trailing arm bushes and anti-roll bar linkages have been flagged throughout the history. Given the age and the documented history of deteriorating rubber parts, a buyer should check for perished boots, split bushings, and any signs of play in the steering and suspension geometry.