2023 MG ZS Trophy EV Electric · NL23 ABN

The 2023 MG ZS Trophy EV received its latest DVSA MOT on 12th June 2026, achieving a passing result with two critical advisories related to tyre wear. These advisories—both near the near-side and off-side front tyres exhibiting excessive wear patterns close to the legal limit—suggest a maintenance oversight or operational issue that has not yet progressed to a failure but warrants immediate attention. The absence of any previous MOT failures or recurring defects in the three-year history indicates a stable maintenance trend, though the advisories highlight a pattern that should be addressed promptly to prevent further tyre degradation or premature failure. The vehicle’s clean history up to this point suggests that any underlying causes for the tyre wear may be isolated to specific driving conditions or a lack of regular tyre rotation, rather than systemic wear from heavy usage. The recorded mileage of 14,869 miles for a vehicle aged three years represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 4,956 miles per annum, which is unusually low for a car of this age and class. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or kept in a non-operational state for extended durations. This can lead to several critical issues, including standing corrosion on brake components, particularly the discs and calipers, which may become bound or seize if moisture and contaminants accumulate. Additionally, the electrical system may suffer from battery degradation due to disuse, and fluids such as the brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time when not circulated regularly. The suspension components, including coil springs and suspension bushes, may also exhibit signs of stiffness or wear if the vehicle has been left stationary for long periods, potentially leading to clunking noises during cornering or uneven ride quality. Given the advisories on the front tyres, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyre condition, focusing on the tread depth and wear patterns. The advisories indicate that the tyres are worn on the edges, which could suggest underinflation, excessive speeding, or improper alignment. On a test drive, listen for any signs of uneven tyre wear, such as a vibration or pulsation that correlates with speed, and check for excessive noise or vibration from the front wheels. The buyer should also verify the vehicle’s alignment settings, as misalignment can accelerate tyre wear. Beyond the tyres, inspect the front suspension for any signs of play or excessive movement in the struts, wishbones, or suspension bushes, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps or at low speeds. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, check for corrosion on the brake discs and calipers, particularly around the wheel hubs and brake caliper slides, which may indicate the need for a brake fluid flush and potential caliper lubrication. For a vehicle of this age and mileage profile, the buyer should also prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the battery and electrical system. Given the low annual mileage, the 12V battery may have degraded due to disuse, leading to reduced performance or the inability to start the vehicle. Test the battery voltage when the engine is off and running, aiming for at least 12.6 volts; a reading below 12.4 volts suggests a weak battery that may need replacement. Additionally, check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and securely fastened. The brake system should be inspected for any signs of standing corrosion, particularly on the rear brake discs and calipers, as prolonged inactivity can cause them to bind. A brake fluid flush is recommended to remove any contaminants and ensure optimal braking performance. Lastly, consider scheduling a service to check and replace fluids that may have degraded over time, such as the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, as these should be replaced at regular intervals regardless of mileage, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods.