2009 Mitsubishi Shogun 3.2L Diesel · LG59 KRD

The 2009 Mitsubishi Shogun presents a mixed roadworthiness profile with a clear pattern of recurring safety concerns across multiple test cycles, though the most recent assessment on 2026-06-16 indicates the vehicle has cleared its current MOT with residual advisories. A series of earlier failures in 2024 and late 2025—including critically thin front and rear brake pads, compromised front seat restraint anchorage, and an insecure exhaust system—have been followed by partial recoveries and subsequent re-failings, suggesting a persistent underlying problem that resurfaced despite interim passes. The latest 2026-06-16 pass carries its own set of non-critical advisories regarding tyre condition and substructure integrity, indicating that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, ongoing attention to identified systems is required. At 17 years old with 98,508 recorded miles, the Shogun accumulates approximately 5,795 miles annually—a rate considerably lower than typical for its model year and age, which may reflect infrequent driving or extended periods of storage between use episodes. The test history reveals significant gaps between assessments, notably spanning nearly three months between the 2024-07-19 dual results and the 2025-06-21 pass, and a longer interval before reaching the 2026-06-16 clearance. While the lower mileage suggests minimal cumulative wear on engine components and drivetrain, the concentration of failures concentrated in the 2024–2026 window warrants caution, as high-mileage vehicles typically exhibit more pronounced deterioration in consumable items such as brake pads, suspension bushings, and brake discs. The absence of warning signs in the most recent test does not eliminate the risk posed by the documented failures that have recurred across different timeframes. The suspension system appears to be a primary concern, evidenced by the 2026-06-16 advisory noting nearside rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and excessive wear on the front upper suspension ball joint, alongside a similar finding from the 2026-06-15 failed test. On a test drive, expect noticeable knocks over potholes or uneven surfaces when traversing rough pavement, particularly when braking hard—the front upper suspension ball joint may exhibit play or creaking under load, and the nearside rear tyres could display uneven tread wear or a wobbly ride height during cornering. Given the prior report of severely worn front upper suspension ball joints, inspecting the associated steering column and suspension linkage movement will help confirm whether the issue persists or has progressed further. Brake-related components have been a consistent source of failure, with the 2024-07-19 tests recording front brake pads below the 1.5 mm threshold and an offside rear brake pad similarly worn, and the 2026-06-16 pass reiterating nearside rear brake pad thinning. During a test drive, pay close attention to pedal firmness and vibration when applying the brakes, especially through tight corners where the front brake pads are most exposed; a spongy or pulsating pedal would indicate remaining pad material loss or potential air in the hydraulic system. Additionally, the 2026-06-16 advisory about the exhaust system being insecure requires visual confirmation of the tailpipe clamp integrity and proper flange seating—listen for unusual clunking noises as you approach the back of the vehicle and ensure no rattling occurs when moving the rear wheels. Finally, the 2026-06-16 advisory regarding outer sills not being fully inspected due to missing covers suggests checking for rust penetration along the chassis railings and subframe joints, as corrosion here can compromise structural rigidity and potentially affect suspension geometry over time.