2022 MG HS Exclusive 1.5L Petrol · CF22 STX

The most recent MOT test on 2026-07-23 resulted in a failure, following a previous clean test in July 2025, which indicates a concerning pattern of unresolved issues rather than a stable maintenance trend. The repeated failures highlight critical failures in the vehicle’s safety-critical systems, specifically the seat belt buckle functionality and passenger seat restraint, alongside persistent advisory items like the near-side rear nail in the tyre and air freshener obstructing the driver’s view—a non-mechanical but legally required compliance issue. The engine MIL and electronic braking system faults from July 2025 also re-emerged, suggesting underlying electrical or sensor issues that have not been rectified, which could compromise drivability and braking performance. This history underscores a need for urgent rectification of these major defects before proceeding with purchase, as they represent serious safety deficiencies that must be addressed to ensure roadworthiness. The vehicle’s mileage of 38,570 miles at its current age of four years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,642 miles, which is typical for a car of this model and age. However, the absence of a service history or detailed maintenance records makes it difficult to assess whether this mileage reflects consistent, responsible ownership or periods of prolonged inactivity. Rapid mileage accumulation could accelerate wear on components such as the suspension, brake systems, and drivetrain, particularly if the vehicle has been driven under heavy loads or in challenging conditions. Conversely, lower-than-expected mileage might imply the car has been stored for extended periods, risking issues like tyre perishing, standing corrosion on the chassis and suspension, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Either scenario warrants careful inspection to mitigate potential long-term costs. Given the MOT failure history, the prospective buyer must prioritise immediate rectification of the major defects before proceeding. The seat belt buckle failures and passenger seat restraint issues are critical safety concerns, as they could lead to non-compliance with roadworthiness standards and pose risks during an accident. The engine MIL and electronic braking system faults require professional diagnosis to determine whether they stem from faulty sensors, wiring, or more extensive electrical failures. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the seat mechanisms, such as grinding or binding when the seat backrest is adjusted, and check that the seat belts retract smoothly without resistance. If these issues cannot be resolved, the vehicle should not be purchased in its current state. For the buyer to proceed with the purchase, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential, especially given the vehicle’s age and the unresolved MOT failures. Focus on the suspension and wheel alignment, as the near-side rear nail in the tyre suggests uneven wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or suspension component wear. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing fluid can cause corrosion. Check the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity over time. Additionally, verify the health of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as the recurring MIL and braking system faults may indicate broader electrical issues. Ensure all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation. If the vehicle has been in storage, flush the cooling system and replace the coolant to prevent corrosion and thermal damage. Finally, confirm that the service book has been updated, particularly for the timing belt and other time-sensitive maintenance, as the MG HS is known to require precise service intervals.