1963 Jaguar E-Type 3.8L Petrol · AFM 626A

The vehicle’s roadworthiness status is currently stable but requires immediate attention to the steering column issue, which was the sole cause of failure in the most recent test on 2025-09-10. The subsequent pass on 2025-09-11 suggests the fault was rectified, though the absence of a defect code on the pass certificate means the repair was not formally verified by the tester. This pattern indicates a single, isolated mechanical concern rather than a worsening trend, but the steering column’s excessive movement—classified as a major defect—demands thorough inspection to confirm the fix was permanent and not merely a temporary adjustment. The washer failure, while minor, reflects a basic oversight in fluid maintenance and should be treated as a routine check rather than a structural issue. The recorded mileage of 62,500 miles over approximately 63 years equates to an average of around 992 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. Such minimal usage may imply prolonged periods of storage, potentially accelerating deterioration in components like rubber seals, suspension bushes, and electrical connections. The gap between tests—just 24 hours—is unusual and suggests the vehicle was likely in transit or undergoing immediate servicing after the failure. There are no earlier MOT records to assess long-term trends, but the low mileage raises questions about whether critical components, such as the steering column’s internal bearings or the suspension’s rubber mounts, have been subjected to prolonged static load or environmental exposure. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the steering column’s mechanical linkage and universal joints, as excessive movement could indicate worn bushings, a failing cardan joint, or internal bearing failure. The suspension system—particularly the rear, given the E-Type’s known susceptibility to bush wear—should be scrutinised for excessive play in the track arms, panhard rods, or coil spring mounts. Brake components, though not flagged in the MOT, warrant attention due to the vehicle’s age; binding calipers, corroded flex hoses, or unevenly worn discs are common in high-mileage classics. Additionally, the electrical system—including the washer pump and any auxiliary circuits—should be tested for corrosion or dry-rotted wiring, as prolonged inactivity can compromise connections. Rust penetration in the chassis, sills, or subframe is another critical area, especially if the vehicle has spent time in wet or salted environments.