2008 Dodge (usa) Caliber 1.8L Petrol · AF08 PMY

The most recent MOT, conducted on 13 June 2026 at 64,210 miles, passed with two minor advisories: slight play in the nearside front inner steering linkage ball joint and slight play in the offside rear wheel bearing. This indicates the vehicle is currently roadworthy but showing early wear in two distinct chassis areas. The maintenance trend is stable rather than improving, as advisories have appeared consistently across multiple tests without full resolution. The 2025 test also flagged a light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber and a tyre pressure warning, while 2024 recorded slight play in the nearside front drag link end ball joint. These items suggest gradual deterioration of front-end steering and rear suspension components over time rather than sudden failure. The vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2025, and the most recent pass confirms it meets minimum safety standards, though the recurring nature of steering and suspension advisories warrants careful attention. The recorded mileage of 64,210 miles over approximately 18 years averages roughly 3,567 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression is steady and consistent: 62,494 miles in June 2023, 63,149 miles in June 2024, 63,637 miles in June 2025, and 64,210 miles in June 2026. This equates to roughly 650 to 700 miles per year in recent years, down from a slightly higher earlier rate. There are no gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record, suggesting continuous but light use. The MOT history itself is complete and consecutive with no missing years, which is a positive indicator of regular testing. Low annual mileage can mean reduced wear on drivetrain and braking components, though prolonged periods of standing may contribute to perishing of rubber bushes and tyres, as evidenced by the 2023 advisory on perishing front tyres. A buyer inspecting this Caliber in person should focus on the front steering linkage and rear suspension. The repeated advisories for ball joint play at both the inner steering linkage and drag link end point to worn joints that may require replacement if play has progressed beyond acceptable limits. The offside rear wheel bearing advisory from the most recent test is a new item and should be checked for roughness or noise during a road test, as bearing failure can escalate quickly. The light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber, noted in 2025, should be re-examined to confirm whether it has worsened to a full leak, which would compromise damping performance. Tyre condition deserves close scrutiny given the history of perishing and pressure system warnings; check the date codes and sidewalls on all four tyres and the spare if fitted. The vehicle presents as a lightly used example with a complete MOT record and no dangerous or major structural defects flagged. The pattern of advisories is typical for age-related wear on a low-mileage car that may have spent extended periods stationary. A thorough inspection of the steering, suspension, and wheel bearings, combined with a road test focusing on handling precision and any unusual noises from the rear, will confirm whether the wear remains within acceptable tolerances or if component renewal is imminent.