2008 Midas Excelsior 1.4L Petrol · H344 DUF

An unblemished pass on 2024-04-29 gave way to a failure later that same day for a split nearside front outer constant velocity boot, followed by a failure on 2005-08-08 due to rear brake imbalance and insufficient service brake efficiency before passing later that day upon rectification. The MOT history concludes with a clean pass recorded on 2026-04-24 with zero defects noted, showing that the most recent test outcome is clear of advisories. This pattern demonstrates that while the vehicle is capable of achieving clean passes, it has experienced acute mechanical issues requiring targeted intervention, particularly within the braking and drivetrain systems. Accumulating 97,310 miles over its roughly eighteen years of life yields an average of approximately 5,406 miles per year, representing a low overall usage rate for a 2008 vehicle. This lighter-than-average annual mileage does not indicate any multi-year lay-ups or suspicious testing gaps, as the MOT trail shows regular annual presentations. Mechanically, this usage profile means the vehicle has been spared heavy fleet or motorway commuting wear, though lower mileage can still place older rubber components, seals, and friction surfaces at risk of age-related degradation. When inspecting this vehicle, direct your attention specifically to the front brake discs, which were previously noted as worn, pitted, or scored, as well as the rear braking system that triggered a major failure for imbalance and low efficiency. On a test drive, listen closely for any metallic scraping or judder through the brake pedal under moderate deceleration, and check that the vehicle pulls up in a straight line without grabbing. You should also verify the condition of the nearside rear tyre, which has previously exhibited perishing and cracking, and inspect the sidewalls for age-related splitting. Further scrutiny should be applied to the steering and drivetrain joints given the prior history of a split constant velocity boot and a deteriorated track rod end dust cover. During your road test, listen for any rhythmic clicking or knocking noises from the front corners while executing tight low-speed turns, which would indicate persistent CV joint wear. Additionally, check the steering responsiveness for excessive play or vagueness on-centre, and examine the front suspension and steering gaiters underneath with a torch to ensure no fresh grease or fluid is escaping from the recently repaired areas.