CATERHAM CONVERTIBLE2003 · 1.7L PETROL

The current roadworthiness of the vehicle is compromised following a failure during the most recent inspection in April 2026. While the previous four years showed a clean history with no recorded defects, the sudden failure at 5,654 miles indicates a shift in the maintenance status. The trend has moved from perfectly stable to a worsening state, requiring immediate attention before the car can be considered roadworthy again. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a twenty-three-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 246 miles per year. There is a notable gap in usage between September 2021 and September 2022, where the car covered only 1,667 miles, followed by more consistent annual intervals of 300 to 400 miles. This low frequency suggests the vehicle has been stored for long periods, which often leads to age-related degradation of rubber, seals, and fluid components despite minimal mechanical wear. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection to determine the specific cause of the 2026 failure, as no defects were listed in the prior passes. Given the low mileage and age, focus should be placed on structural integrity and potential corrosion on the chassis, which is common for older Caterham models. Additionally, inspect the suspension bushings, fuel lines, and braking system, as these can perish or seize when a vehicle is not driven frequently.