1978 Daimler 4.2 Sovereign Auto 4.2L Petrol · BWS 766S

The Daimler Sovereign currently holds a clean bill of health, with the most recent MOT on 8 September 2025 at 17,935 miles resulting in a pass with no recorded defects. This indicates a positive maintenance trend, as the vehicle has successfully moved past the minor fluid leaks identified in previous years. The absence of advisories in the last three consecutive tests suggests that the current owner has addressed the mechanical shortcomings that previously hampered the vehicle, resulting in a stable and reliable roadworthiness status. The vehicle displays an exceptionally low mileage profile, averaging roughly 374 miles per year over its 48-year lifespan. While the total distance covered is minimal, the history reveals significant periods of inactivity, most notably between October 2017 and September 2023, where the car covered only 94 miles. Such prolonged storage often leads to the degradation of rubber seals, hoses, and fuel system components, even if the vehicle passes its annual inspection. The lack of mileage accumulation between 2017 and 2023 suggests the car spent substantial time off the road, which warrants a cautious assessment of perishable items. Prospective buyers should focus their inspection on the areas previously flagged as problematic, specifically the power steering system and the gearbox. Although the 2016 and 2017 tests noted oil leaks, these have not appeared in recent records, implying either a successful repair or the potential for fresh leaks to develop once the vehicle is returned to regular use. You must check the underside for signs of historic corrosion or fresh oil seepage around the transmission casing and steering rack joints. Given the vehicle's age and long periods of dormancy, examine all flexible brake hoses and suspension bushes for signs of perishing or cracking, as these components often fail due to age rather than excessive wear.