2009 Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4L Petrol · CU09 LPZ

The most recent MOT on 4 December 2025 was a pass, but it follows a failed test just two weeks earlier that recorded a fractured off‑side front coil spring and excessive binding on the off‑side rear service brake – both classified as major defects. Over the last six years the vehicle has alternated between clean passes and failures involving the parking brake, tyre wear advisories and a corroded exhaust silencer. The pattern suggests that while the owner has addressed some issues to achieve a pass, there is a recurring need for substantive suspension and brake work, indicating a maintenance trend that is not consistently improving and may be edging towards worsening if the underlying causes are not fully resolved. At 121,090 miles for a 2009 model the annual average is roughly 7,100 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a car of this age. The mileage record does not show any periods of unusually high accumulation that would point to severe wear, nor does it reveal long gaps that might suggest prolonged storage. Nevertheless, the relatively modest yearly mileage means that many wear items – such as tyres, brake pads and suspension bushings – may be more affected by calendar ageing than by mileage alone, so age‑related degradation must be considered alongside the recorded distance. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension and rear braking assembly. The off‑side front coil spring that fractured in the 2025 failure is a critical load‑bearing component; inspect both front springs for cracks, corrosion or signs of fatigue, and listen for clunking or knocking when the steering wheel is turned or when driving over bumps. The rear service brake binding noted at the same test can manifest as a dragging pedal, uneven brake‑pad wear or a pulsating feel when applying the brakes; a thorough inspection of the rear caliper pistons, brake lines and pad condition is essential, and any uneven pad wear should be corrected before the next test. The parking brake efficiency failure recorded in 2024 indicates that the handbrake may not hold the vehicle securely; verify that the handbrake lever engages firmly, that the rear drum or disc shoes move freely, and watch for any squeal or resistance that could signal worn adjusters or seized components. Additionally, the tyre wear advisories from 2022 mean the front tyres should be examined for edge wear, sidewall cracking and tread depth; if the tyres are close to the legal limit, budgeting for a replacement set is prudent. The corroded outer skin of the rear exhaust silencer, while only advisory, should be checked for rust penetration that could lead to leaks or increased noise. Given the car’s seventeen‑year age, a buyer should also conduct the standard age‑related checks. Examine all tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot, especially if the vehicle has spent periods standing still, and confirm that the tyre pressure retention valves are functional. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, as batteries over ten years often require replacement regardless of mileage. Inspect the engine bay for any fluid leaks – oil, coolant, brake fluid – and verify that the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids have been changed within the recommended service intervals, as time alone can degrade their performance. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and ensure that any major suspension or brake work noted in the MOT failures has been documented with receipts or a workshop sign‑off before committing to purchase.