2017 Mitsubishi L200 2.4L Diesel · CU67 YFP

The Mitsubishi L200 achieved a MOT pass on 10 December 2025, though this outcome should be read with caution because the test immediately prior, conducted just one day earlier on 9 December 2025, resulted in a failure with three major defects. The vehicle has therefore only just cleared the roadworthiness threshold following rectification work, and the advisories carried forward from the failure remain relevant. The maintenance trend over the longer term is broadly stable, with clean passes recorded in 2020, 2021, and 2022, followed by a wiper-related failure in 2023 and a clean retest, and front anti-roll bar bush advisories in 2024. The sudden cluster of rear shock absorber failures, parking brake adjustment issues, and brake pipe corrosion advisories in late 2025 represents a noticeable deterioration rather than an improving picture, suggesting that the vehicle has reached a stage where corrosion-related and suspension wear items are beginning to demand attention. With 77,779 miles recorded over approximately nine years, the L200 is averaging around 8,642 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a working-class diesel pickup of this age and slightly below the national average. There are no extended standing periods evident in the recorded mileage trajectory, and the annual accumulation appears reasonably consistent, which is favourable for drivetrain longevity as components such as the timing belt, clutch, dual-mass flywheel, and turbocharger have been exercised regularly. Diesel L200s of this generation are robust mechanically provided they have been serviced in line with manufacturer schedules, so the principal wear concerns at this mileage centre on suspension, braking, and corrosion rather than engine internals. Routine replacement items such as the water pump, injectors, and EGR valve should still be considered as potential forthcoming expenses on a high-mileage diesel of this vintage. The rear shock absorber failure is the most significant item to verify. Both dampers were recorded as damaged to the extent that they no longer function, which on a loaded pickup is a safety-critical defect affecting axle control, axle hop, and braking stability particularly when the load bed is in use. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces, observe whether the vehicle settles unevenly at the rear when stationary, and check for excessive body roll or pitching under light braking. The parking brake lever excessive movement indicates incorrect adjustment at the time of test, so confirm that the handbrake now holds firmly on an incline with the recommended number of ratchet clicks, and that the rear drums or calipers are not binding, as seized mechanisms often masquerade as adjustment issues. The brake pipe corrosion advisories on both front pipes warrant close physical inspection, as corroded brake lines can develop leaks under hydraulic pressure; any bubbling, flaking, or live rust on the pipe surfaces should be treated as an imminent replacement requirement. The front brake disc wear advisory and the 2024 anti-roll bar D-bush advisories point to a vehicle whose chassis and braking consumables are progressing predictably for its age and mileage. Inspect the front discs for visible lipping, scored surfaces, or corrosion around the bell area, and verify there is no brake shudder through the steering wheel under firm application. The anti-roll bar link bushes contribute to cornering stability and steering precision, so worn items will produce vague handling and a slight delay in turn-in response, alongside potential knocking on direction changes. Beyond the MOT record, an L200 of this age and mileage should be examined for tyre sidewall perishing and cracking regardless of tread depth, particularly if the vehicle has stood for any length of time, given the prevalence of age-related dry rot on commercial vehicles. Verify the 12V battery health with a load test, as diesel vehicles are particularly sensitive to weak cranking voltages, and confirm the timing belt, water pump, and ancillary drive belts have been replaced in line with Mitsubishi's interval schedule. Finally, check that all fluid services, including brake fluid, coolant, and differential and transfer box oils where applicable to the four-wheel-drive system, have been carried out on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage, as aged fluids degrade irrespective of use and can lead to corrosion within the cooling system and premature wear in the driveline.