2016 MG 3 1.5L Petrol · CT16 ABK

Recurring tyre defects and emerging front-end wear define the mechanical history of this vehicle, which transitioned from a clean record in 2021 and 2022 to a pattern of failures and advisories. Two separate MOT failures in 2023 and 2025 were caused by tyre cuts deep enough to reach the ply or cords, and the most recent pass on 15 July 2026 still carries an advisory for an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit. This suggests a consistent trend of tyre degradation and wear that persists despite the passing results. The recorded mileage of 47,178 miles over approximately ten years represents a low annual average of roughly 4,718 miles. Such a usage profile often indicates the vehicle has been used for short-distance urban trips or has experienced periods of standing. Mechanically, this low accumulation rate can lead to specific types of wear, such as the degradation of rubber components and suspension bushes through age rather than distance, which aligns with the advisories noted in the testing history. Attention must be paid to the front steering and suspension geometry during a physical inspection. The 2025 record flagged play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint, and the 2024 test noted worn front suspension arm rear bushes. On a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any vagueness in the steering response or a tendency for the vehicle to drift may be linked to these specific steering rack and bush issues. The repeated failures and advisories regarding tyre cuts and edge wear warrant a close examination of all four tyres. Specifically, check the inner and outer edges of the front tyres for uneven wear patterns, which can be a symptom of incorrect wheel alignment resulting from the previously flagged suspension and steering play. Ensure that the current tyres are free from sidewall damage or cuts, as this has been a recurring point of failure for this vehicle in previous years.