2005 Rover 25 1.4L Petrol · BU05 ABO

The most recent MOT on 12 December 2025 was a pass, but it carried an advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak. The preceding test only four days earlier had failed on several major items – both headlamp aims were out of tolerance, the front passenger door could not be opened from inside, and the rear fog lamp was inoperative. Earlier in the record the 2024‑12‑11 test also failed, primarily for a non‑functioning hazard warning lamp, while the 2023‑12‑04 test passed with only advisory items. The pattern shows a deterioration in the last two years, with major failures emerging after a period of relatively minor advisories, indicating that maintenance has not kept pace with the vehicle’s ageing components. At 59,175 mi the Rover 25 has logged an average of roughly 2,800 mi per year, which is well below the typical usage for a car of its age. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity or very light use, both of which can accelerate the decay of rubber components, corrosion of metal parts, and the loss of battery capacity. While the low mileage reduces wear on engine internals and drivetrain bearings, it also raises the likelihood of perished suspension bushes, dried‑out seals, and the gradual stiffening of steering and braking systems that are not exercised regularly. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the recurring power‑steering fluid seepage noted in every MOT since 2023. Inspect the steering rack and associated hoses for any dampness or oily deposits, and test for any increase in steering effort or whining noises when turning at low speed. The exhaust flexi pipe, flagged as worn in multiple years, should be examined for cracks, rust, or loose joints; a hissing sound or a faint sulphur smell while the engine is running would confirm a leak that may affect emissions and fuel efficiency. The rear axle beam bushes were recorded as perished in 2024, so a thorough check for clunking noises over bumps, excessive rear wheel play, or uneven tyre wear is essential, as these bushes also influence wheel alignment and handling stability. Given the tyre advisories from 2023 – both rear tyres were close to the legal tread limit and showed edge wear – verify the current tread depth and look for sidewall cracking, which is common on low‑usage cars where rubber ages rather than wears. Confirm that all external lamps, especially the hazard warning and rear fog lamps, operate correctly, and test the interior door lock mechanism to ensure the passenger door can be opened from inside. Finally, because the vehicle has likely spent considerable time stationary, have the 12 V battery load‑tested, inspect brake discs for surface corrosion or glazing, and consider a full service of all fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering fluid) to replace any that have degraded with time.