2020 MG HS Exclusive 1.5L Petrol · GM08 ELS

The defining mechanical theme across four recorded MOT tests on this MG HS is a consistent rear brake disc advisory, logged at every inspection from 2023 through 2025 before the most recent test on 13 July 2026 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded. The rear discs have been flagged for pitting and scoring on both the nearside and offside sides, an issue first noted at 18,000 miles in September 2023 and reiterated twice thereafter in September 2024 and May 2025. Although each individual advisory was assessed as not seriously weakened, the fact that the same components are repeatedly appearing suggests progressive wear rather than a transient condition. The clean 2026 pass indicates the discs were either replaced or resurfaced between tests, but a prospective buyer should treat the rear braking system as the primary area for close mechanical scrutiny. With the vehicle now around six years old and showing 18,417 recorded miles, the annual mileage accumulation works out at approximately 3,070 miles per year, which is notably low for the age and segment. The MOT timeline does not reveal any significant testing gaps, with annual inspections from 2023 onward, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left dormant for extended periods. Mechanically, lower annual mileage of this kind reduces wear on major drivetrain components, but it can also mean longer intervals between brake applications, which can actually accelerate disc corrosion and surface pitting, particularly on rear axles where modern braking systems apply a smaller proportion of total stopping force. The recurring pitting advisories on the rear discs are consistent with this usage profile. On a physical inspection, particular attention should be directed to the rear brake discs and pads, given the three-year run of advisories. Run the vehicle to a gentle stop from approximately 30 mph and listen for any judder through the brake pedal or vibration through the chassis, which would indicate lateral run-out or disc thickness variation. With the engine running and the handbrake engaged on a slight incline, attempt to drive away in first gear; any reluctance to release the rear brakes or a dragging sensation may point to binding rear calipers, a known concern on lightly used vehicles where corrosion can affect the slider mechanisms. Inspect the inner and outer faces of the rear discs through the wheel spokes for a pronounced lip at the outer edge, which would suggest the discs are nearing their minimum wear thickness. Beyond the braking system, a road test on typical British road surfaces should be conducted with the suspension in mind. Although no suspension or steering advisories have been recorded, the low mileage and front-wheel-drive configuration of this MG HS warrant checks for any knocking from the front suspension over uneven ground, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links or lower arm bushes that may have deteriorated from underuse rather than wear. Steering should be checked for any pulling to one side under braking or during steady motorway running, and the tyres should be examined for uneven shoulder wear, which can indicate an alignment issue. Finally, verify the operation of all electronic stability control and parking aid functions, given the Exclusive trim level, and confirm that the infotainment and driver assistance systems, including lane keeping assist, calibrate and operate as intended during a short drive.