1989 Alfa Romeo 75 3.0L Petrol · F533 GGO

A chronic theme of ageing corrosion and suspension wear runs through this 1989 Alfa Romeo 75, with the most recent MOT in September 2025 still passing but flagging slightly worn front and rear shock‑absorber bushes and a corroded rear coil spring. Earlier records reveal repeated advisories on suspension arm play, excessive corrosion of rear suspension mounting points and anti‑roll‑bar linkages, and a history of brake‑system inefficiency that required a failure in 2016. Although the vehicle has avoided outright failures since 2016, the accumulation of corrosion‑related advisories suggests that structural and chassis components are the primary mechanical risk. At 51,588 mi the car averages roughly 1,400 mi per year, a very low utilisation rate for a 37‑year‑old model. The MOT timeline shows a nine‑year gap between the 2016 tests and the 2025 test, implying the car may have spent extended periods off the road or been subject to intermittent use. Low mileage does not mitigate age‑related degradation of rubber bushings, metal corrosion and fluid seals, so wear on components such as suspension bushes, brake hoses and exhaust joints is likely driven more by time than by distance. When inspecting the suspension, listen for clunking or knocking over bumps and feel for any looseness in the steering column or wheel wobble that could indicate worn shock‑absorber bushes or deteriorated anti‑roll‑bar rubber mounts. Visually examine the rear coil spring for surface rust and assess the condition of the lower suspension arm mounting areas for excessive corrosion, especially around the ball‑joint interfaces. Any uneven tyre wear or a sagging rear ride height would corroborate the advisory findings and may require bush replacement or spring refurbishment. The braking system warrants particular attention: verify firm, progressive pedal feel and test for any judder that could stem from the previously noted disc pitting or thin pads. Inspect the front brake pipe for corrosion and the brake‑hose ferrules for rust, as these were flagged in earlier advisories. Confirm that all rear indicator and position lamps, as well as near‑side headlamps, operate correctly, given the 2016 failure record. Finally, check the exhaust for any increase in the previously noted minor leak and inspect jacking points and seat‑belt anchorage for rust, as these areas have been reported as corroded in past MOT entries.