2016 MG 3 1.5L Petrol · AV16 AEB

The 2016 MG 3’s most recent MOT test on 2025-09-01—just ten months ago—shows a concerning pattern of two consecutive failures at the same mileage (60,124) before passing again, though no defects were recorded on either attempt. This suggests either a temporary administrative error or a test centre oversight, as the vehicle’s history since 2023 has been otherwise clean, with no advisories or repeated issues. The lack of defects in the 2024 and 2023 tests implies that, if properly maintained, the car has avoided major mechanical failures. However, the double failure in 2025 warrants scrutiny, particularly if the vehicle has undergone recent modifications or if the test centre’s procedures were inconsistent. The recorded mileage of 60,124 miles over nine years—roughly 6,680 miles annually—falls within the expected range for a vehicle of this age, though it suggests moderate usage rather than heavy duty. There are no obvious gaps in service intervals, and the progression from 45,326 miles in 2023 to 51,509 in 2024 (6,183 miles) and then to 60,124 in 2025 (8,615 miles) indicates a slight acceleration in mileage accumulation in the final year. This could imply either increased usage or a period of underreporting earlier in the vehicle’s life. The absence of advisories or recurring faults in the MOT history means there’s no direct evidence of neglect, but the sudden spike in mileage in 2025 may correlate with the test centre anomalies. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that aren’t routinely checked in MOTs, such as suspension bushes and coil springs for excessive play or corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and sills. The double failure in 2025, despite no noted issues, raises questions about potential undiagnosed problems—such as intermittent brake binding, faulty emissions systems, or sensor malfunctions—which could explain the test centre’s repeated attempts. The brake system, in particular, should be scrutinised for uneven wear, warped discs, or seized calipers, as these are common causes of MOT failures that don’t always appear in the official record. Additionally, check for signs of structural corrosion in the subframe or rear axle area, as this model is prone to rust-related failures over time. Given the mileage, the condition of the exhaust system—especially catalytic converters and oxygen sensors—should also be verified, as these are frequent sources of advisory notes.