1998 Rover 620 2.0L Petrol · R275 BON

A persistent pattern of deteriorated constant velocity (CV) joint boots on both front drive shafts is the defining mechanical story of this Rover 620, flagged as a Minor defect at three consecutive tests from 2024 through 2026. The most recent examination on 27 August 2026 resulted in a pass, but the same nearside and offside front drive shaft joint CV boot deteriorations were recorded once again, indicating an unresolved issue that has now spanned three annual tests. The advisory regarding the centre and rear exhaust has likewise appeared at the last three tests, initially noted as corroded in 2024 and subsequently described as slightly deteriorated in 2025 and 2026, suggesting gradual but ongoing degradation of the exhaust system. An earlier advisory from September 2022 concerning corrosion around the offside rear suspension component mounting area, specifically the inner wheel arch above the sill and in front of the wheel, has not reappeared on subsequent tests, which may indicate it was addressed or has not yet progressed to a categorisation of excessive. The intervening tests in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023 were recorded without any defects, establishing that the current advisory and minor defect pattern represents a recent development rather than a long-standing condition. With approximately 56,584 miles recorded across 28 years, the vehicle has accumulated an average of around 2,021 miles annually, which is notably low for a car of this age. This restrained usage figure suggests either limited driving or extended periods of inactivity, both of which carry mechanical implications. Low annual mileage typically results in prolonged exposure to standing conditions, which can accelerate the deterioration of rubber components such as CV boots, suspension bushes, and flexible exhaust sections, all of which are consistent with the defects recorded on this vehicle. The MOT testing history shows consistent annual testing without any extended gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained on the road and in use throughout the recorded period. The mileage accumulation pattern between tests appears broadly stable and modest, without any sudden jumps that might indicate inconsistent use or odometer concerns. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition of both front drive shafts, as the CV boots have been flagged as severely deteriorated at three consecutive MOT tests. On a test drive, listen for clicking or popping noises from the front of the vehicle during sharp low-speed turns, which would indicate that grease has escaped from the perished boots and that the CV joints themselves may now be worn. Inspect the boots visually for splits, tears, or missing grease, and check the surrounding suspension components for any contamination from leaked lubricant. The recurring exhaust advisories warrant a physical inspection of the centre and rear sections for signs of corrosion, perforations, or blowing joints, particularly during a cold start where irregular exhaust notes or rattling may be audible. The 2022 advisory relating to corrosion around the offside rear suspension mounting area should be physically inspected, including the inner wheel arch, sill junction, and the area immediately in front of the rear wheel. Look for surface rust, bubbling paint, or any structural distortion, and check for knocking or creaking from the rear suspension over uneven road surfaces, which could indicate that mounting points have weakened. Given the low recorded mileage, it is also advisable to check for signs of ageing rubber components such as perished suspension bushes, deteriorated engine and gearbox mountings, and any seepage from the power steering system, all of which can deteriorate through age rather than use. A thorough road test should include firm braking to verify pedal feel and absence of pulling, as well as observations for any unusual vibrations or handling irregularities that may reflect underlying wear masked by the modest recorded mileage.