2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Diesel · FD09 YHM

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 June 2026 resulted in a PASS with no advisories, and this represents a positive turnaround following the immediate prior test on 17 June 2026 which was failed on major defects concerning headlamp beam aim and excessively corroded nearside and offside rear brake pipes. The pattern over the last four recorded tests shows a degree of volatility. The 2024 entry included a major defect for a nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint excessively worn, alongside tyre and headlamp issues, while the 2025 test passed with advisories relating to rear bumper mountings, light shock absorber oil misting, and brake pipe corrosion covered in grease. The fact that the same brake pipe advisories escalated into a major failure in 2026 indicates a worsening trend in that particular area, but the clean pass immediately after suggests remedial rectification work was carried out promptly. Overall, the maintenance trend is presently stable, but prospective buyers should be mindful of the narrow window between the failure and the subsequent pass, confirming that the repairs were not merely cosmetic. With 147,860 miles recorded against an approximate vehicle age of seventeen years, the annual mileage equates to roughly 8,700 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage. There are no conspicuous gaps in the MOT record suggesting long periods of standing, although the relatively even cadence of annual tests combined with a modest annual mileage could mask periods of inactivity. A seventeen year old vehicle with this mileage will inevitably be approaching the point where age related deterioration begins to dominate over mileage related wear, particularly in respect of rubber components, braking hydraulics, suspension bushes, and corrosion prone underbody areas. The recorded annual usage does not suggest an excessively hard worked vehicle, but the cumulative mileage remains substantial and drivetrain longevity, particularly clutch, gearbox, and turbo components if applicable, should be considered in any valuation. Buyers should also verify the authenticity of the mileage record against service history documentation to ensure consistency. Given the recurring brake pipe corrosion findings across multiple tests, this is an area that warrants close physical inspection beneath the vehicle. Brake lines, particularly the front to rear sections along the underbody and chassis rails, should be examined for surface rust, pitting, and any evidence of recent replacement or patching with inappropriate fittings. On a test drive, listen for any spongy brake pedal feel, pulling to one side under braking, or excessive pedal travel, all of which could indicate hydraulic issues stemming from corroded pipework. The headlamp aim defects noted in both 2024 and 2026 suggest that the adjustment mechanism, reflector condition, or possibly worn suspension geometry allowing excessive front end dip could be at play, and buyers should ensure the lamps are correctly aligned and that the vehicle sits level when stationary. The advisories for shock absorber oil misting on both front and rear units, recorded across 2024 and 2025, indicate a gradual deterioration of damper sealing. On a test drive, pay particular attention to any bouncing, excessive body roll through corners, or clonking noises from the suspension over uneven surfaces, as these symptoms may suggest the dampers are approaching the end of their serviceable life. The major defect recorded in 2024 for a nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint being excessively worn is a significant item, and buyers should physically inspect the front suspension for perished bushes, excessive play in the joints, and uneven tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres. Additionally, given the vehicle's age, particular attention should be paid to tyre sidewall condition for cracking or perishing even if tread depth appears adequate, the age and condition of the twelve volt battery, the state of all coolant and brake fluid which degrade with calendar age regardless of mileage, and the condition of any timing belt or chain service intervals if this is within the manufacturer's recommended replacement window. A thorough underbody inspection on a ramp is strongly recommended to verify the integrity of the floorpan, suspension components, and exhaust system, all of which are vulnerable to corrosion on a vehicle of this age.