2002 MG ZS 1.8L Petrol · WJ51 AWW

The vehicle is currently out of MOT, with the last recorded test dating back to August 2022. The maintenance trend is worsening, as the record shows a pattern of deferred repairs and recurring faults. In the August 2022 test at 110,149 miles, the tester flagged thin brake pads, low handbrake performance, and a deteriorated exhaust. These issues, combined with an intermittent ABS warning lamp that first appeared in August 2019, suggest a lack of proactive mechanical upkeep. The mileage is low for a 24 year old car, averaging roughly 4,590 miles per year. However, the data reveals the vehicle has been almost stationary for several years. Between August 2022 and the current date of July 2026, there are no new entries and the mileage remained static at 110,149. Long periods of standing often lead to seized brake calipers, perished rubber seals, and accelerated corrosion, which aligns with the faults found in previous tests. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the chassis and suspension. The August 2021 and August 2022 tests both noted corrosion in the front suspension component mounting areas. While not considered excessive at the time, the lack of recent activity increases the risk of structural degradation. The July 2020 failure for a binding offside front brake and a split CV boot indicates a history of neglected wear items. The recurring ABS warning lamp and the repeated mentions of a deteriorated exhaust across 2019, 2021, and 2022 suggest these faults were ignored rather than repaired. You should check for significant rust on the floors and sills and verify the current state of the suspension bushes and ball joints. Given the four year gap since the last MOT, the car should be treated as mechanically suspect until a full workshop inspection is completed.