2004 CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE3.2L PETROL

The most recent MOT, conducted on 2 February 2026 at 51,511 miles, shows a clear shift in the vehicle's condition. After two consecutive clean passes in 2023 and 2024, the February 2026 test flagged multiple new advisories. The tester noted a deteriorating catalytic converter breaking up internally, which risks exhaust emissions failure and potential damage to downstream sensors. Both front and nearside rear tyres displayed cracking in the tread area, indicating perished rubber likely caused by age rather than mileage. The rear sub-frame was found corroded at the suspension arm mounting points, though not seriously weakened at the time of test. The offside front headlamp lens has a product on it, slightly reducing light output. Taken together, the maintenance trend is worsening, suggesting the car may have stood for extended periods or been stored poorly, allowing rubber and corrosion to develop despite minimal use. The mileage pattern reinforces this picture. Over roughly 22 years, the car has covered just 51,511 miles, averaging around 2,341 miles per year. The MOT record shows a steady but very slow accumulation: 49,674 miles in August 2022, 50,831 miles in September 2023, 51,199 miles in September 2024, and 51,511 miles in February 2026. That is only 312 miles between late 2024 and early 2026, pointing to a period of very light use or outright standing. Low mileage alone does not guarantee a healthy car. Long periods of inactivity accelerate rubber degradation, brake seizure, and localised corrosion, all of which appear in the record. A buyer should inspect the rear sub-frame carefully. The February 2026 advisory noted corrosion at the suspension arm mounting points, and while it was not seriously weakened at the time of test, this is a structural area that demands close scrutiny. Any signs of flaking, pitting, or soft metal around the mounting points could indicate deeper compromise. The rear suspension bushes and coil springs should also be checked for perishing, as a car that has stood will deteriorate here regardless of mileage. The braking system warrants particular attention. In August 2022, the tester flagged corrosion on all four brake pipes, with the nearside front-to-rear pipe excessively corroded and chafing against a plastic cover. The offside rear service brake was also binding. Although the car passed its next two tests without brake-related advisories, the underlying corrosion may have been masked by grease or surface treatment rather than properly repaired. A buyer should inspect the underside for fresh pipe replacements, check for any signs of brake fluid seepage, and test the handbrake for binding on a rolling road. The catalytic converter breaking up internally is another concern. Fragments can block the exhaust or damage the lambda sensors, so a compression test and live emissions data would help confirm the extent of the deterioration. Tyre age codes should be checked even if tread depth remains legal, as the cracking noted in February 2026 suggests the rubber is past its serviceable life.