2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · DM08 FAD

The Mitsubishi Lancer presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a completely clean pass on 15 February 2025 at 62,760 miles with zero defects recorded. That clean sheet is significant because the previous test on 6 January 2021 at 56,485 miles flagged perishing on both rear tyres, indicating the vehicle had been standing or the rubber had degraded from age. The subsequent two tests in 2022 and 2024 both passed without advisories, confirming the tyres were replaced and no new mechanical or structural faults emerged. The record suggests a conscientious owner who corrected the tyre issue and has maintained the car to a consistent standard since. The mileage pattern tells a clear story of very light use. Between the February 2022 test at 59,659 miles and the January 2024 test at 59,734 miles, the car covered just 75 miles over nearly two years. That gap strongly implies the vehicle was parked or used only occasionally during that period. The mileage then jumped by 3,026 miles between January 2024 and February 2025, a modest increase but a noticeable change from the near-static earlier pattern. Overall, the annual average of roughly 3,487 miles is exceptionally low for an 18-year-old car, which typically reduces wear on brakes, suspension, and the drivetrain but raises questions about long-term fluid degradation, seal condition, and exhaust system moisture buildup from short trips. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on components that suffer from age rather than mileage. The 2021 tyre advisory confirms the car can sit stationary long enough for rubber to perish, so check the spare tyre, coolant hoses, and brake flexible hoses for cracking or swelling even if the tread looks sound. With so few miles between 2022 and 2024, the exhaust system may have experienced internal condensation and corrosion from cold, short runs; inspect the underside of the exhaust box and joints for early rust-through. Given the clean MOT history, major structural rust or suspension failure is unlikely, but a close look at subframe mounting points, jacking points, and inner wing lower edges remains prudent on a vehicle of this age. Brake discs and pads may look nearly new from the mileage, yet surface corrosion from standing can cause uneven wear or binding, so a road test should include a steady stop from moderate speed to confirm the car pulls straight and the handbrake holds firmly.