1984 Mitsubishi VAN 1.6L Petrol · B568 TKE

The most recent DVSA examination on 9 September 2023 resulted in a Pass, although the same date also records a Fail prior to rectification. The pass was accompanied by a Minor defect noting a severely deteriorated nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover, and an Advisory for light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber. While the vehicle has ultimately cleared the test, the recurrence of wiper and lighting issues across both the 2022 and 2023 visits suggests an intermittent maintenance trend, with electrical and wiper components appearing to deteriorate between tests rather than being comprehensively addressed. Overall, the trend is best described as stable but with emerging concerns around suspension sealing and exterior lamp/wiper functionality, indicating that consumable electrical items are now reaching the end of their reliable service life. With only 93,970 miles recorded over approximately 42 years, this Mitsubishi Van averages around 2,237 miles per year, which is exceptionally low and well below typical usage for a commercial vehicle. The MOT history itself is sparse, with recorded tests in 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023, suggesting significant periods of inactivity, possible SORN status, or limited operational use. Such low annual mileage carries its own mechanical risks, particularly regarding brake calipers seizing from standing, corrosion forming on brake discs and underbody components, and degradation of rubber and polymer parts through age rather than wear. The relatively short intervals between recent tests and the low implied mileage suggest the vehicle has likely been used intermittently, and any standing-related deterioration will be far more relevant to its condition than mileage-driven wear. Given the recurring advisories on suspension and the age of the vehicle, the nearside rear shock absorber light oil misting warrants close attention. While currently classed as an advisory, shock misting typically progresses to a hydraulic failure over time, and during a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces, excessive rear body bounce, and instability under braking. The deteriorated ball joint dust cover on the nearside front suspension arm is a Minor defect but should not be overlooked, as a compromised boot allows water and grit ingress, accelerating wear of the joint itself. Symptoms to watch for include uneven or feathered front tyre wear, vague or wandering steering, and clonking noises from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or rough roads. Given the van's age, it would be prudent to have the suspension arms, bushes, and steering components physically inspected for play, perishing, and corrosion, as these are calendar-sensitive items rather than purely mileage-driven. Beyond the recorded defects, the age of this 1984 Mitsubishi Van demands thorough inspection of time-sensitive components regardless of its low recorded mileage. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, which occurs from age even when tread depth remains adequate, and any tyre older than six years from its DOT date stamp should be regarded with caution. The 12 volt battery is likely to be well beyond its typical service life and should be load tested, while brake discs may show significant surface corrosion and calipers may have seized pistons from prolonged standing, leading to uneven braking or pulling to one side on the first firm application. All fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and fuel, degrade with calendar age and should be replaced as a matter of course unless documentary evidence of recent servicing exists. Finally, the underbody, floor pans, suspension subframes, brake and fuel lines, and the exhaust system should be examined on a ramp for corrosion, as a 42 year old vehicle is likely to present localised rust even where general bodywork appears sound, and verifying continuity of service history stamps would substantially strengthen buyer confidence.