1984 Austin Metro 1.3L Petrol · A756 OKK

The vehicle currently presents a stable roadworthiness status following a clean pass in November 2022 at 41,060 miles. This represents a significant improvement over the mechanical failures seen in early 2021, where the car suffered multiple critical safety defects. While the most recent test indicates no immediate defects or advisories, the history of failures suggests that major suspension and braking components were addressed only after failing rather than through preventative maintenance. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 42-year-old vehicle, averaging just under 1,000 miles per year. Between March 2021 and November 2022, the car covered only 558 miles, indicating it is likely used sporadically or has sat in storage for long periods. While this low mileage limits mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often increases the risk of age-related degradation in rubber components and fluid-related, which aligns with the issues noted in the record. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front end suspension and braking assembly given the history of recurring faults. The March 2021 failure flagged a rough offside front wheel bearing, a worn ball joint, and a thin brake disc. Because these components were replaced to pass subsequent tests, you should check for play in the steering and any noise from the hub. Additionally, the offside drive shaft CV boot failed twice in succession between 2019 and 2021; these must be inspected for cracking or grease leakage to ensure the replacements have held up. Given the vehicle's age and low usage, the structural integrity remains the primary concern. The MOT record does not show historical rust failures, but the Austin Metro is prone to severe corrosion in specific areas. Prioritize the sills, floor pans, and strut mounting points for deep corrosion that might not be captured in a standard test. The low rear brake recording noted in 2021 also suggests the hydraulic cylinders may be prone to seizing due to inactivity, which is common for vehicles with this mileage pattern.