1998 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · R158 ABT

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows signs of recent instability despite a successful pass in the December 2024 test at 111,299 miles. While the most recent result cleared a defective exhaust mounting, the October 2024 failure at 111,201 miles revealed significant mechanical and safety concerns. This failure included high carbon monoxide and lambda readings, indicating engine management or combustion issues, alongside a missing central rear seat belt buckle and deteriorated front lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers. The maintenance trend appears inconsistent, moving from a clean pass in 2020 to a series of more complex failures in late 2024. The mileage profile suggests very light usage for a 28-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,975 miles per year. There is a notable period of inactivity between the September 2020 test at 110,665 miles and the October 2024 failure at 111,201 miles, where the vehicle covered only 536 miles in four years. This long period of standing often leads to component degradation, such as perished rubber seals, seized brake components, or fuel system issues, which likely contributed to the emissions failures seen in both 2016 and 2024. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the exhaust system and engine emissions performance. The record shows recurring issues with carbon monoxide levels and lambda readings, suggesting the catalytic converter or oxygen sensors may require attention. The December 2024 mention of a custom exhaust with a defective mounting implies non-standard modifications that should be checked for structural integrity and legality. Suspension and steering components also require close scrutiny. The 2024 failure regarding ball joint dust covers and the 2018 failure involving a split steering rack gaiter indicate that rubber components are prone to splitting on this vehicle. Given the 2017 advisories regarding pitted and scored brake discs across all four corners, the buyer should check for significant corrosion on the braking system and ensure the calipers are not binding. The missing seat belt buckle noted in 2024 is a direct safety non-compliance that must be rectified.