2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse 1.5L Petrol · EB60 GJB

The latest MOT test for this 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse occurred on 2025-09-16, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects, following a series of failures and advisories over the preceding three years. While the vehicle has demonstrated stability in recent MOT results, the earlier failures—particularly the multiple dangerous defects involving tyre tread separation and structural integrity in 2022—suggest a history of significant tyre wear that has not been fully addressed. The advisories from 2024 and 2025, such as tyre cracking, edge wear, and a cut that did not reach the ply, indicate ongoing or emerging tyre-related issues that warrant closer attention. These patterns suggest that while the vehicle has avoided immediate roadworthiness risks in the last 18 months, the underlying tyre condition remains a critical concern, especially given the age and mileage. The recorded mileage of 43,696 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,462 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical wear rates for similar models. Such low mileage can result from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or environmental factors like indoor parking or limited exposure to road conditions. However, low mileage does not automatically mitigate wear risks, particularly for components that degrade over time regardless of distance travelled, such as seals, gaskets, and brake systems. The 2022 failures, which included multiple tyre tears, may have been exacerbated by prolonged standing or suboptimal storage conditions, potentially leading to accelerated tyre degradation or structural fatigue. Additionally, the windscreen wiper failure from 2022 highlights the importance of checking for calendar-based wear on rubber components, which can deteriorate even with minimal use. Given the tyre history and the recent MOT results, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the front and rear sets for signs of further structural damage, such as delamination, exposed cords, or persistent edge wear. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noises—such as a grinding or scraping sound when cornering or accelerating—which could indicate worn or damaged treads. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal alignment or suspension issues, and visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracks, perishing, or bulges, as these can compromise safety. The advisories from 2024 and 2025 regarding tyre cracking and cuts suggest that the vehicle may have been subjected to stress or poor road conditions, so replacing the tyres to the legal minimum tread depth (1.6mm) is strongly recommended, ideally with new or high-quality used tyres to prevent future failures. Beyond tyres, the buyer should also examine the vehicle’s suspension and steering components for signs of wear or damage, as low mileage can sometimes mask underlying issues that become apparent only under load. Inspect the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for leaks, cracks, or excessive play, which can be detected by a clunking noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Check the brake system for binding calipers, excessive brake dust, or corrosion on discs and pads, particularly on the near-side front and rear, where previous MOT advisories have been noted. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. Additionally, verify that all fluid levels—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up, and consider checking the service history for any missed time-based maintenance, such as brake fluid flushes or coolant system servicing, which are critical every 2–3 years regardless of mileage. Lastly, the presence of a child seat advisory in 2024 suggests the vehicle may have been modified, so ensure any aftermarket changes do not obstruct MOT inspections or compromise safety.