2015 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · LE12 AJA

A recurring advisory for thin rear brake pads has now surfaced across three consecutive MOT tests in November 2024, December 2025, and again on the same date in 2025, which forms the most consistent mechanical theme in this Mitsubishi's recent roadworthiness record. The December 2025 test also produced a failed attempt on the same day, with a near-side front position lamp not functioning flagged as a repairable defect, after which the vehicle subsequently passed. Underlying that current pattern, a more serious event occurred in November 2022 when the vehicle failed with a dangerous defect for significantly weakened offside front seat belt webbing, an outcome that requires the seat belt assembly to be replaced before the vehicle can be returned to the road. Outside of these items, the 2020 and 2023 tests recorded no advisory items at all, indicating that the remainder of the tested components have generally met the minimum standard, though the cumulative advisory picture is dominated by braking and suspension wear. With 109,373 miles accumulated over roughly eleven years, this Outlander is running at approximately 9,943 miles per year, a rate that is broadly in line with typical usage of a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record, and the mileage progression between tests is consistent, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for prolonged periods. At this mileage, mechanical wear on consumable items such as brake pads, discs, coil springs, bushes, and tyres is to be expected, and the specific advisories recorded align well with the sort of component degradation one would anticipate on a diesel or petrol SUV of this age and mileage bracket. The absence of any recorded advisories relating to structural corrosion, fluid leaks, exhaust integrity, or steering or suspension component play is a positive element of the record, even though MOT testing is a roadworthiness check and does not establish mechanical condition beyond the points examined on the day. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the rear braking system, given the repeated advisory for thin rear pads across three consecutive tests. On a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding noise from the rear wheels under light braking, and feel for any judder, pulling, or imbalance through the brake pedal, particularly under firm application from higher speeds, which could indicate rear disc wear now that the pads are approaching replacement. The front brake discs were noted as lipped in December 2021, so confirm that any subsequent disc machining or replacement has produced a smooth pedal feel without vibration. The fuel cap seal was also recorded as cracked in 2021, and while a new cap is inexpensive, a persistently loose or ill-fitting cap can trigger an evaporative system warning light and should be verified as sound. Both rear coil springs were flagged for corrosion in December 2020, so on inspection check for any sagging of the rear ride height, knocking over uneven surfaces, or visible flaking and pitting on the spring coils themselves, as corroded springs on an SUV of this age can progress to fracture with continued mileage accumulation. The dangerous seat belt failure recorded in November 2022 should be confirmed as remedied by a proper replacement assembly rather than a temporary repair, and the seat belt should be inspected for smooth retraction, no fraying along its length, and a positive latch feel. The failed position lamp on the near-side front in December 2025 should likewise be verified as fully functional across main beam, dip, and indicator settings, as electrical faults on a vehicle of this age can sometimes indicate underlying wiring or earthing issues. Tyre condition is worth scrutinising given the cuts recorded in 2021, with all four tyres checked for sidewall damage, tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters, and even wear patterns across the axle, as uneven wear may point to alignment or suspension bush wear which has not yet manifested as a recorded advisory. A final under-bonnet and underfloor examination for any oil seepage from the engine or transmission, condition of the exhaust hangers and mounts, and general structural integrity at the jacking and suspension mounting points would round out a sensible appraisal before purchase.