2017 Dodge Journey 3.6L Petrol · AGX 5229

The 2017 Dodge Journey’s most recent DVSA MOT test on 2022-01-11 resulted in a pass, with a single advisory noted regarding offside rear floor panel damage that was deemed non-structural. This is a solitary entry in the MOT history, indicating no recurring issues, no failures, and no evidence of a deteriorating maintenance trend. The absence of prior advisories or failures suggests that, up to this point, the vehicle has maintained a stable roadworthiness profile, though the advisory itself—while not failing the test—demonstrates a need for attention to cosmetic and potential secondary structural integrity concerns. The lack of further advisories or failures in the intervening period implies that any underlying wear or damage has either been addressed or is not yet critical. The recorded mileage of 45,158 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 5,018 miles, which is notably lower than the industry average for a similarly aged car. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of storage, or operational constraints, but it also raises questions about wear patterns on consumables, suspension, and drivetrain components that might otherwise accumulate more rapidly. Lower mileage can mask early signs of wear on items like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components, as these may not exhibit significant degradation until higher mileage or prolonged static conditions exacerbate issues such as corrosion, binding, or fatigue. Conversely, if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, standing corrosion—particularly on brake discs, calipers, and suspension linkages—could be a hidden risk, as moisture and lack of movement accelerate rust formation. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas of inspection should focus on the vehicle’s standing condition and time-based maintenance. Given the low annual mileage, the tyre tread depth should be verified for adequate wear, but the sidewall condition is equally important, as prolonged storage can lead to cracking or perishing from UV exposure and age-related degradation. The 12-volt battery should be checked for capacity and corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain and terminal oxidation. The brake system should be inspected for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly on the rear discs and calipers, which are more susceptible to rust when stationary. Fluid levels—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace fluids that have exceeded their service life, even if mileage is low. The advisory on the offside rear floor panel suggests a need to visually inspect for any secondary damage to adjacent components, such as suspension mounts or exhaust system connections, which could be affected by the impact. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the suspension, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or coil spring failure. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal alignment or steering system issues, and monitor brake performance for any shuddering or reduced stopping distance, which could indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or hydraulic issues. The exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or unusual emissions, and the steering and suspension should be tested for play or excessive resistance, as these could signal deeper mechanical wear. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, prioritise a thorough inspection of the engine bay for fluid leaks, as standing fluids can corrode components over time, and ensure all service records are up to date, particularly for fluid replacements and timing belt servicing if applicable. If the vehicle has been stored for significant periods, consider a more comprehensive inspection by a qualified mechanic to address potential standing corrosion and hidden wear before proceeding with purchase.