2005 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.9L Diesel · AF05 LDD

The most recent MOT test on the 2005 Mitsubishi Space Star was conducted on 2026-01-13 and resulted in a clean pass, though it revealed several persistent advisories that warrant careful attention. Over the past five years, the vehicle has maintained a stable MOT history with no major failures beyond the 2022 test, which included a major defect for excessive play in the near-side front track rod end ball joint and a minor directional indicator fault. While the oil leak and severely deteriorated constant velocity boot have been recurring issues, they have not escalated to failure points, suggesting that the vehicle’s maintenance may have addressed these concerns proactively. However, the consistent presence of corrosion advisories on rear suspension mounting areas and the wear on front and rear tyres—including multiple instances of nails and edge wear—indicate ongoing mechanical stress that requires monitoring. The recorded mileage of 128,180 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 21 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,104 miles, which is typical for a car of this age and class. Such mileage accumulation is consistent with moderate to heavy use, particularly if the vehicle has been driven regularly over the past decade. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests that the car has not been left in a stationary state for prolonged periods, which could otherwise accelerate issues like standing corrosion, brake pad binding, or fluid degradation. However, the wear patterns on the tyres, particularly the near-side front tyres being worn close to the legal limit, imply that the vehicle has undergone significant braking activity, potentially contributing to premature brake pad wear and eventual disc or pad replacement. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and potential wear progression. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the suspension, particularly around the rear wheels, which could indicate further deterioration of the corroded mounting areas or loose components. The severely deteriorated constant velocity boot on the offside front drive shaft joint should be addressed promptly, as a ruptured boot will lead to oil leakage and potential bearing failure, compromising drivetrain integrity. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as this may signal misalignment or suspension misalignment, and inspect the front tyres for cracks or sidewall damage, which can weaken the tyre structure over time. Additionally, verify that the brake discs and pads are free from corrosion or binding, as the thin brake pads from previous MOTs suggest that the system may need servicing soon. Inspect the oil leak area for signs of contamination or further leakage, and consider a fluid top-up or filter replacement to prevent sludge buildup. Lastly, examine the exhaust emissions system for any unusual noises or backpressure, which could indicate catalytic converter or manifold issues, given the vehicle’s age. Given the vehicle’s age and the recurring advisories, a thorough mechanical inspection by a qualified technician is strongly recommended before purchase. Focus on the suspension components, particularly the track rod ends and ball joints, as the 2022 major failure indicates that these areas may have been neglected or worn beyond their serviceable limits. Check the drivetrain for signs of oil leakage or excessive play in the CV joints, and ensure all fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—are topped up to manufacturer specifications. For the tyres, replace any that are worn to the legal limit or show signs of cracking, as this will improve safety and prevent blowouts. If the vehicle has been driven at a steady pace, consider a service schedule that includes fluid refreshes every 60,000–100,000 miles to mitigate the effects of prolonged use. Finally, verify the service book for any missing or outdated records, as this will help confirm whether the vehicle has undergone necessary maintenance to prevent further deterioration.