2018 Ssangyong Rexton 2.2L Diesel · PN68 AEG

This SSangYong Rexton has demonstrated a stable but inconsistent MOT compliance pattern over the past two years, with the most recent test on 23 March 2026—just four months ago—resulting in a pass at 28,865 miles. The absence of defects in any of the five recorded tests suggests the vehicle has not suffered from catastrophic failures or major structural issues during this period. However, the repeated failures in April 2025 and March 2026—both at similar mileages (23,578 and 28,652)—raise suspicion of a recurring, albeit minor, oversight rather than a mechanical flaw. The lack of advisory notes in any test implies no hidden concerns were flagged by the tester, though this does not preclude wear that falls below MOT thresholds. The mileage progression of approximately 3,600 miles per year is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the 2018 model year. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—covering 4,857 miles in just over a year—followed by another 5,074 miles between the 2025 failures suggests periods of inactivity rather than consistent use. Such low mileage could indicate prolonged storage, which may accelerate deterioration in components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers due to lack of motion and potential corrosion from moisture. The absence of any mileage jumps or irregular patterns also means there is no evidence of aggressive driving or heavy loads, which might have accelerated wear. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on consumable items that typically fail just below MOT thresholds or degrade over time without use. Check the suspension for perished bushes, cracked or split coil springs, and excessive play in ball joints—common issues in low-mileage vehicles left stationary for extended periods. The brakes, despite passing tests, should be scrutinised for uneven wear on discs or pads, binding calipers, or corrosion on the sliding pins, all of which could develop without regular driving. Tyre tread depth, while not failing in tests, may have worn unevenly if the vehicle was stored without movement, so verify for irregular wear patterns or embedded debris. Finally, inspect the underbody for corrosion, particularly around the sills, wheel arches, and exhaust system, as rust can develop silently in low-mileage cars left exposed to the elements.