2000 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · V538 FTN

The most recent MOT (23 March 2022, 111,285 miles) was a clean pass with no defects recorded—over two years ago as of today (14 June 2026), so this is no longer current evidence of condition. A recurring issue appears in the 2016 MOTs: a slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint, recorded twice within six days, and contributing to a failure on 23 November 2016 alongside a missing rear fog lamp and excessive CO emissions. The track rod end issue was not present in later tests, suggesting it was repaired or replaced before 2018. No similar steering or suspension defects have reappeared in the 2018, 2020, or 2022 MOTs, indicating the problem was likely addressed and the trend has been stable since. The mileage is low for a 26-year-old car—just 4,280 miles per year average—suggesting light or infrequent use, possibly including extended periods of inactivity. This can reduce wear on moving parts but may increase risk of deterioration in seals, hoses, rubber bushings, and brake components due to age rather than use. The absence of major defects in the last three MOTs is positive, but does not rule out age-related degradation. The CO emission failure in 2016 points to a past issue with the fuel or ignition system, but no further emissions failures have been recorded, implying it was resolved. However, without recent emissions data (last tested in 2022), a buyer should verify current emissions compliance during a pre-purchase inspection. Most importantly, inspect the condition of the front suspension components—especially the track rod ends and related joints—since this was the only recurring defect, and check for dry-rot or cracking in rubber mounts and bushes.