2017 Hobby Optima T70 E 2.3L Diesel · DX67 AVN

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2017 Hobby Optima T70 occurred on 2026-03-12, resulting in an unexpected failure under the major category for parking brake efficiency, which is a critical safety requirement (DVSA standard 1.4.2 (a) (i)). This failure stands in contrast to the clean test results from the preceding two MOTs, conducted in April 2025 and June 2024, indicating a sudden and significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous roadworthiness status. Such a failure suggests either a recent mechanical issue with the parking brake system—potentially involving the cable tension, mechanical linkage, or hydraulic actuator—or a failure to address a prior minor advisory that escalated into a major defect. The buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the parking brake mechanism, including the cable routing, brake pedal travel, and the condition of the parking brake discs and shoes, as corrosion or wear within the system could have compromised efficiency. The presence of this failure alone should not preclude purchase if the rest of the vehicle’s history and condition are sound, but it demands immediate attention to prevent further safety risks. The recorded mileage of 26,716 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 2,968 miles per annum, which is unusually modest for a vehicle of this age and model. Lower mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged standing, particularly if the vehicle was used in a region with less traffic or was kept in a garage or less exposed environment. However, this usage profile could also imply that the owner has maintained the vehicle in a manner that minimises wear on critical components such as the suspension, drivetrain, and exhaust system. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may not have experienced the same degree of wear as might be expected from higher annual mileage. Nevertheless, the low usage rate may also mask underlying issues, such as standing corrosion in the brake system, suspension components, or underbody areas, where moisture can accelerate deterioration. The buyer should be particularly vigilant for signs of rust in the parking brake mechanism, as well as any unusual noises or binding during the test drive, which could indicate latent problems exacerbated by infrequent use. Given the recent MOT failure related to the parking brake, the prospective buyer should commence an immediate inspection of the vehicle’s parking brake system, focusing on the following areas: the cable tension and routing for signs of fraying or corrosion, the condition of the brake shoes or discs for wear or binding, and the mechanical linkage for smooth operation and absence of excessive play. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises when engaging the parking brake, such as grinding, squeaking, or clunking, which could indicate misalignment, worn components, or binding calipers. If the brake pedal feels spongy or requires excessive force to engage the parking brake, this may signal a hydraulic actuator issue or a leak in the system. Additionally, check for uneven brake pad wear or excessive heat marks on the discs, which could suggest that the vehicle has been left in a stationary position for prolonged periods, leading to corrosion or binding. If the parking brake mechanism is confirmed to be faulty, the buyer should budget for a repair or replacement, as this is a critical safety component that must be rectified before continued use. For the rest of the vehicle’s condition, assuming the rest of the MOT history and usage profile are typical for a nine-year-old car with low mileage, the buyer should conduct a series of practical checks to address potential age-related wear and tear. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and environmental conditions. Check the tyre tread depth for legal compliance and uneven wear patterns, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues that could worsen with further use. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as low usage can lead to battery degradation or sulphation. Additionally, verify that the service book has been updated for time-based maintenance, such as fluid top-ups for the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the buyer should ensure that the vehicle’s exhaust system is free from leaks or blockages, which could affect emissions performance and fuel efficiency, and inspect the suspension components for signs of wear or damage, such as cracked coil springs or deteriorated suspension bushes, which may not have been fully utilised due to infrequent driving.