2004 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · EV03 EEO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 May 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. The broader MOT record shows a single failure in July 2017, which related to a deficient washer system, non‑functioning off‑side front position lamp and several emissions limits being exceeded. Those items were rectified promptly, as evidenced by a clean pass at the following August 2017 test and a succession of passes thereafter. This pattern suggests a maintenance regime that, after a brief lapse, has been stable and responsive, with no recurring faults appearing in the six‑year window. With a recorded mileage of 62,027 miles for a 2004 model, the average annual usage works out at roughly 2,800 miles per year, considerably below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited driving or extended storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage in terms of component ageing. While the low mileage reduces the likelihood of wear‑related failures on items such as camshaft bearings, clutch plates or gearbox synchronisers, prolonged inactivity can promote rubber hardening, corrosion of brake discs, and battery sulphation. The absence of any mileage spikes or gaps in the MOT chronology suggests the odometer reading is credible and that the vehicle has not been subjected to any sudden high‑stress usage. For a buyer, the foremost checks should concentrate on age‑related deterioration rather than mileage wear. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or feather‑edge wear, as tyres older than ten years can become unsafe even if tread depth appears adequate. Examine the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion, swollen case and verify its cranking voltage; a battery that has sat idle for long periods often requires replacement. Assess the suspension by feeling for any looseness or clunking when applying pressure to the front and rear corners, and look for worn or cracked rubber bushings, especially on the control arms and trailing arms, which can cause vague handling changes. Verify that the front off‑side position lamp operates correctly and that the washer system now delivers a steady spray, as these were the items that caused the 2017 failure. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the exhaust system is advisable; look for rusted or perforated sections, especially around the manifold and catalytic converter, and listen for any rattles that may indicate cracked heat shields. Check the brake discs for surface corrosion, pitting or uneven wear that could lead to shudder under hard application, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering – are topped up, free of water ingress and have been changed in line with the manufacturer’s time‑based service intervals, as fluids degrade even when the car is not driven heavily. A test drive that includes gentle acceleration, steady cruising, braking and a short high‑speed run will help reveal any latent issues before a purchase is finalised.