2005 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · J33 HBS

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the most recent inspection indicates a shift from a clean record to reactive maintenance. While the car achieved three consecutive clean passes between 2021 and 2025, the March 2026 test at 126,004 miles introduced three distinct advisories. This suggests that while the mechanical integrity remained stable for several years, the upkeep of wear items has begun to lapse. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use vehicle of twenty-one years, averaging approximately 6,000 miles per annum. There is a notable two-year gap between June 2021 and January 2023 where the vehicle covered only three miles. Since the January 2023 test, the car has covered over 23,000 miles in three years, indicating a recent increase in usage. This sudden uptick in mileage often leads to the accelerated degradation of rubber-based components and lubricants, which may align with the emerging wear issues seen in the latest report. A buyer must prioritize inspecting the offside front wheel bearing which was flagged for slight play in the 2026 test. This component will eventually require replacement to prevent noise or wheel instability. The nearside and offside front tyres are also reaching the legal limit and showing uneven wear, suggesting a potential alignment issue or worn suspension bushes. A physical check of the front geometry is necessary to determine why the tyres are thinning prematurely. Given the age of the vehicle, a thorough inspection of the structural integrity is essential to check for corrosion on the sills and subframe. Although the MOT history does not show structural failures, older Mitsubishi Lancers are prone to rust in these areas. Ensure the brake system is checked for binding calipers or excessive surface corrosion, as the record does not detail the condition of the discs and pads beyond the basic pass requirements.