2012 Aston Martin Rapide 5.9L Petrol · YJ12 AKK

The vehicle has presented a consistent pattern of tyre-related advisories throughout its MOT history, beginning with front tyres showing cracking or perishing in September 2024 and persisting through May 2025 before being revisited at the most recent November 2025 test where both rear tyres were found worn close to legal limits on both sides. These recurring tyre issues dominate the advising trail alongside clean passes in earlier years, indicating that the tyres were the primary consumption area rather than broader drivetrain or structural elements. The overall trend remains stable with no outright failures, yet the repetition of tyre-specific warnings across separate axles suggests these were not isolated incidents but rather a sustained wear pattern that demands attention regardless of the low mileage figure. With 26,402 miles recorded after approximately 14 years of ownership, the annual accumulation rate of roughly 1,886 miles stands significantly below typical expectations for a vehicle of this age, pointing toward either very light usage or extended periods of the vehicle being left stationary. This unusually low mileage does not necessarily preclude mechanical wear, as rubber compounds degrade over time even with minimal movement, and suspension components may still exhibit subtle fatigue despite few kilometres logged. The relatively short interval between the September 2023 and November 2025 tests—just under two years—provides reasonable coverage between assessments, but the lack of intermediate testing gaps combined with the tyre-focused advising makes the overall condition appear manageable provided the tyres remain in good order. Given the tyre-centric nature of the advising history, the front and rear suspension linkages should be inspected closely for any flex or excessive play that could have accelerated uneven wear, and the wheel arches should be checked for signs of impact damage or rust that might compromise mounting points. When conducting a test drive, listen for any vibration transmitted through the chassis when navigating speed bumps or sharp corners, and monitor how quickly the tyres respond to cornering forces to detect any underlying imbalance. Additionally, the brake lines and master cylinder should be examined for signs of leakage or hardening, especially since older systems can develop internal seal deterioration even at moderate mileage, and the subframe should be scanned for rust penetration around mounting bolts that could indicate longer-term exposure to wet conditions. Should replacement tyres be necessary, ensure proper sizing compliance and correct alignment to prevent the recurrence of edge-wear patterns already observed in previous MOTs.