SAAB 9001996 · 2.3L PETROL

The vehicle failed its most recent MOT on 2026-03-19 at 139,825 miles, indicating a worsening maintenance trend. Multiple critical issues were recorded, including structural corrosion affecting body rigidity, a fractured nearside front coil spring, and pitted brake discs. The tester flagged binding rear brakes and a corroded brake pipe, while the nearside rear tyre showed severe damage. These findings suggest neglect in addressing corrosion and suspension integrity, with the failure rate rising compared to previous passes. The car is currently not roadworthy and requires urgent repairs to meet legal standards. The vehicle’s mileage of 139,825 miles over 30 years equates to an average of 4,661 miles annually, significantly lower than typical usage. This pattern implies infrequent use or prolonged storage, which may have exacerbated corrosion and mechanical degradation. Notably, the 2020-10-21 failure occurred at the same mileage as the subsequent 2020-10-22 pass, suggesting a possible administrative error or minimal driving between tests. A four-year gap between the 2022 pass and the 2026 failure further raises concerns about maintenance consistency, as critical components like suspension mounts and brake systems were not inspected during this period. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly the corroded areas around the boot floor, wheel arches, and inner wings. Suspension components, including coil springs and bushings, require close examination for fractures or excessive wear. Brake discs, pipes, and calipers must be checked for pitting, corrosion, and binding. The nearside rear tyre’s damage and the history of exhaust leaks also demand scrutiny. Given the recurring corrosion issues, assessing the body’s overall rust condition and the functionality of seat belts and lighting systems is essential to confirm compliance with safety standards.