2016 Mitsubishi ASX 1.6L Petrol · CF16 FJZ

The 2016 Mitsubishi Asx presents a mixed reliability profile over its ten-year ownership window, with four of five recorded MOT tests passing and two resulting in failures that required intervention. The most recent test on 2026-02-04 achieved a pass but carried three distinct advisories including an oil leak, a damaged nearside front track rod end ball joint dust cover, and tyres worn to the edge of legality at approximately 3mm. Prior to this, the vehicle suffered a major failure in January 2025 when the offside front windshield wiper proved ineffective at clearing the glass, and another failure in February 2022 involving incorrect headlamp aiming positions for both front lights. These patterns suggest gradual component degradation rather than abrupt mechanical collapse, with the current test showing that residual issues persist even after repairs. Regarding mileage, the recorded figure of 84,728 miles on a ten-year-old vehicle translates to roughly 8,473 miles per annum, which aligns with expected utilisation rates for its age group and reflects moderate daily driving rather than intensive use. The absence of continuous testing between the February 2022 and January 2025 assessments implies extended periods without MOT verification, during which the aforementioned headlamp alignment error could have persisted undetected. While the current odometer reading indicates healthy engine hours, the distribution of wear appears uneven, with the front suspension components showing particular susceptibility to deterioration given the timing of the 2026-02-04 test. The tyre wear measurement of 3mm on the edge represents the most immediate visible concern, though this alone would not typically constitute a fail on its own. The nearest component-level concerns stem from the suspension architecture, specifically the nearside front track rod end ball joint whose dust cover was found damaged or deteriorated on the 2026-02-04 test, potentially exposing internal bushings to contamination and premature wear. Drivers should monitor for any clunking or knocking over bumps, particularly when navigating uneven surfaces, as compromised ball joints often manifest as harsher ride quality and vibration transmission. Additionally, the oil leak identified during the same test warrants visual inspection of the engine bay and transmission area for persistent seepage, as unaddressed fluid loss can compromise lubrication systems and increase cleaning requirements. The windshield wiper malfunction reported in January 2025 demands verification of the wiper blade clearance and motor operation prior to purchase, as inadequate wiper coverage poses safety risks in adverse weather conditions. Similarly, the 2022 headlamp alignment faults—both front units positioned too high and skewed to the right—should be rechecked if the vehicle remains operational, as misalignment can cause glare and reduce visibility. Given the overall pattern of sporadic failures spaced approximately two to three years apart, buyers should plan for potential additional interventions such as headlamp adjustment, suspension component replacement, and continued monitoring of tyre tread depth throughout the remaining lifespan of the vehicle.