1988 Mitsubishi Shogun 2.6L Petrol · E462 EJF

The most recent MOT test on 16 February 2026 resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by an advisory noting slightly corroded brake pipes, indicating that corrosion remains a recurring concern on this vehicle. Looking at the broader test history, the maintenance trend is decidedly mixed and shows signs of progressive deterioration rather than stable or improving condition. The vehicle has accumulated a meaningful catalogue of advisories across recent tests covering brake pipe corrosion, suspension arm wear, power steering seepage, track rod end play, gearbox oil weeping, and general underbody corrosion. Of greater concern are the two dangerous and major failure categories recorded in 2024, including a leaking offside rear brake pipe connection and an excessively corroded nearside rear brake pipe, alongside the 2025 exhaust emissions failure for excessive carbon monoxide content. This pattern suggests an older vehicle with ongoing corrosion and emission issues that are being identified but may not be fully rectified between tests. With a recorded mileage of 115,226 miles spread across approximately 38 years, this Shogun has averaged only around 3,032 miles annually, which is exceptionally low for its age and points to extended periods of standing or very intermittent running. Such usage is rarely neutral in its impact, as prolonged inactivity tends to accelerate rubber degradation in components such as tyres, drive belts, hoses, and suspension bushes, while also promoting corrosion on brake discs, caliper sliding mechanisms, and underbody structural elements. Conversely, the relatively low overall mileage does imply that major drivetrain components such as the engine, gearbox, and transfer assembly have not been subjected to heavy wear from sustained high-mileage use. However, the advisories for gearbox oil weeping and power steering pump seepage do suggest that age-related sealing degradation is beginning to manifest regardless of low mileage, and any prospective buyer should anticipate that calendar-based deterioration of fluids, seals, and flexible components is likely to be more relevant than wear from use. Given the recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories and the 2024 dangerous failure for a leaking brake pipe connection, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection of the entire braking system, paying particular attention to the front-to-rear pipe runs along the chassis and the pipe connections across both axles. Look for any surface corrosion, flaking, or signs of recent repair or sealing compounds, and be alert during a test drive for any sponginess in the brake pedal, pulling to one side under braking, or the presence of brake fluid drips beneath the vehicle after it has been parked. The exhaust emissions failure for excessive carbon monoxide in 2025 also warrants investigation, as this can indicate worn engine internals, a failing lambda sensor, a depleted catalytic converter, or air leaks in the induction system, and any symptoms such as rough idle, hesitation under load, or an unusually strong exhaust smell should be taken seriously. Beyond the documented defects, several age-related checks are strongly advised for a vehicle of this vintage and usage profile. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on older tyres regardless of tread depth, and the 2021 dangerous and major failures for damaged and cut tyres indicate this has already been an issue. The suspension should be inspected for perished bushes, weak coil springs, and worn shock absorbers, with attention to any clonks or excessive body roll over uneven surfaces during a test drive, particularly as a nearside rear suspension arm pin or bush was previously flagged as worn. The 12V battery should be load-tested as standing use often leaves batteries chronically undercharged, and all fluids including engine oil, gearbox oil, transfer and differential oils, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be checked for age-related degradation, with a full service history verification essential given the low annual mileage and likelihood that time-based servicing has been neglected in favour of mileage-based intervals.