2019 Mitsubishi L200 2.4L Diesel · DM19 ATN

A recurring theme of front suspension wear and inconsistent brake performance is the defining characteristic of this Mitsubishi L200's MOT history, and it warrants close mechanical scrutiny. Across the four recorded test cycles, the front anti-roll bar system has appeared as an advisory or failure in every single one, specifically the linkage and its pin or bush. In June 2022 the offside front anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush was recorded as excessively worn, constituting a Major defect and a separate Dangerous failure for an exposed nearside front tyre ply. By July 2023 the offside front anti-roll bar linkage was again flagged as insecurely attached, prompting another failure, while a general advisory on the front anti-roll bar pin or bush was noted. The most recent test in July 2026 passed but recorded a slightly noisy nearside front wheel bearing and a rear brake imbalance described as only just meeting requirements, alongside parking brake travel. The pattern suggests the anti-roll bar assembly has been a persistent source of wear rather than a one-off replacement, and the recent bearing and brake notes indicate that further deterioration in those areas should be expected. With four MOT tests recorded over a seven-year period and a current odometer reading of 74,762 miles, the vehicle has averaged roughly 10,680 miles annually, which is consistent with typical commercial or light fleet usage for a pick-up of this type. There are notable gaps in the testing record, with no tests captured between the 2022 cycle and the 2023 cycle being recorded in quick succession on the same day, and the jump from the 2023 test to the 2024 pass and onwards to 2026 shows a relatively normal annual accumulation. The mileage progression does not suggest long periods of standing or unusually high annual use, and the wear observed in the records aligns broadly with what would be expected for a working L200 of this age covering mixed road conditions. Given the L200's typical role as a load-bearing or utility vehicle, buyers should be aware that the combination of moderate mileage and what appears to be front-end mechanical stress may indicate harder use than the headline figure suggests, particularly if the vehicle has seen towing or rough-site work. For a prospective buyer, the immediate mechanical priority is a thorough inspection of the front suspension, specifically the anti-roll bar drop links, the anti-roll bar D bushes, and the condition of the front strut mounts. On a test drive, listen for clonks or rattles transmitted through the bulkhead when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and pay particular attention to any lateral vagueness or a loose, imprecise feel through the front end during directional changes. The nearside front wheel bearing should be evaluated by rotating the wheel off the ground to feel for roughness or by listening for a hum that changes pitch with road speed, and any work carried out on the front hubs or anti-roll bar components should be supported by documentary evidence. Given the persistence of the anti-roll bar issues across four consecutive test cycles, it would be prudent to assume that worn or perished bushes and linkages remain on the vehicle and to budget accordingly. The braking system also requires careful evaluation, as the most recent test recorded rear brake imbalance with braking efficiency only just meeting requirements, and earlier advisories in 2022 noted front brake pads wearing thin. During a test drive, the pedal should feel firm and progressive, with no excessive travel or judder under heavy application, and the vehicle should pull up in a straight line without any obvious bias to one side. Inspect the rear brake drums or discs for scoring, check the parking brake mechanism for excessive free travel, and verify that the rear adjusters are functioning correctly. Tyre wear should also be closely examined, particularly the inner edges of the front tyres, which have been flagged for edge wear on multiple occasions; uneven inner-edge wear often points to suspension geometry issues, worn wishbone bushes, or incorrect tracking, all of which would warrant a four-wheel alignment check following any front suspension rectification. Finally, given the 2022 Dangerous failure for an exposed tyre cord, it is worth confirming that the wheels and tyres currently fitted are in good condition with adequate tread across the full width of each tyre.