2016 Mitsubishi ASX 2.3L Diesel · AE66 NLC

A recurring theme of advancing wear on the braking system and a significant suspension defect dominates this ASX’s recent MOT history. The vehicle failed the 28 January 2026 test when the nearside front suspension arm ball‑joint was judged excessively worn, yet it passed the following day after the issue was apparently addressed, leaving only advisory notes on brake disc wear, thin rear pads and a corroded off‑side rear brake pipe. Earlier tests show a consistent pattern of thin front pads and tyre wear at the legal limit, indicating that while the car has remained road‑worthy, its wear items are converging toward replacement thresholds. With 55,078 mi recorded on a ten‑year‑old vehicle, the average annual accumulation is roughly 5,500 mi – well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 k mi per year. Such low mileage often points to light, possibly intermittent use, which can be gentle on drivetrain components but may also allow moisture to settle on exposed metal parts, as reflected by the corroded rear brake pipe. The modest mileage aligns with the relatively mild wear on the front brake disc, yet the thin pads and tyre edge wear suggest that the vehicle has been driven enough to expose wear‑sensitive items, and the low annual mileage does not guarantee the absence of age‑related degradation. Prospective buyers should give the front suspension arm ball‑joint a thorough tactile inspection: with the car lifted, check for any play in the ball‑joint by moving the wheel up and down and side to side; any clunk or looseness under bumps is a red flag that the joint may be approaching the same excessive wear that caused the 2026 failure. Listen for knocking or knocking sensations over uneven surfaces, and verify that the steering feels solid without wandering. If any play is detected, a replacement of the ball‑joint and possibly the entire arm assembly should be budgeted. The brake system warrants immediate attention. Measure the thickness of the front disc and rear pads; the advisory on “worn but not excessively” front disc suggests it is nearing its service limit, and the thin rear pads will soon require replacement to maintain balanced braking. Inspect the off‑side rear brake pipe for surface rust, cracking or any signs of leakage, and consider a full pipe replacement if corrosion is extensive. During a test drive, monitor the pedal for any sponginess, judder, or pull to one side, which could indicate uneven pad wear or pipe issues. Finally, replace the front tyres that were flagged as close to the legal limit in 2025, as worn edges can affect grip and fuel efficiency, and verify that the wheel rims are free of cracks or severe corrosion. Addressing these items will bring the ASX back to a robust, road‑worthy condition.