2012 Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4L Petrol · AF12 YST

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-08-27, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. Two consecutive failures on the same day at identical mileage suggest unresolved issues were not addressed between tests, despite the car passing in 2024 and 2023. The same suspension components, exhaust corrosion, and wiring faults reappear across multiple tests, indicating a pattern of deferred repairs rather than incremental improvement. The fact that the same suspension bushes, coil springs, and sub-frame corrosion were flagged in 2023, 2024, and 2025 implies that underlying structural wear has not been corrected, and the vehicle’s condition is deteriorating under continued use. The recorded mileage of 79,967 miles over 14 years equates to approximately 5,700 miles per year, which is low for its age and suggests the car has been lightly used or parked for extended periods. The jump from 69,965 miles in August 2023 to 78,389 miles in August 2024 represents roughly 8,400 miles in one year — a significant increase that may have accelerated wear on tyres, suspension, and drivetrain components. The 2025 MOT occurred just one year after the 2024 test, with no major mileage jump between them, indicating steady, moderate usage. There are no gaps in the record, and the data is consistent, though the low annual mileage does not negate the mechanical fatigue evident in the recurring faults. A buyer must inspect the suspension system closely, particularly the front and rear coil springs, sub-frame, and anti-roll bar linkages, as these components have been repeatedly flagged for corrosion, incorrect fitting, or wear. The nearside rear tyre was underinflated in 2025, and the offside front tyre was worn to the legal limit in 2024 — both signs of neglect or improper maintenance. The exhaust system shows persistent corrosion and minor leaks, which may indicate compromised emissions compliance and potential future failure. The electrical wiring insulation damage, especially around the wear sensor, should be checked for integrity, as it may affect diagnostic systems or safety functions. The rear beam axle and suspension bushes also show signs of long-term degradation, which could impact handling and safety if left unaddressed. The car’s mechanical condition reflects a history of deferred maintenance rather than proactive care. While it remains legal to drive, the recurring structural and component-level faults suggest that a buyer should budget for immediate repairs to suspension, exhaust, and tyre systems. The low mileage does not excuse the level of corrosion or wear observed — it may even indicate that the vehicle has been stored for long periods, allowing rust to develop without being driven to mitigate it. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist mechanic familiar with Alfa Romeo’s suspension and exhaust systems is strongly advised before purchase.