2007 Mitsubishi L200 Double CAB 2.5L Diesel · FE07 AEX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 January 2026, was a pass but it carried three advisories – front brake pads approaching minimum thickness, a slight play in the off‑side front wheel bearing and significant corrosion on the underside of the chassis. Over the last three years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with major failures recorded in early 2024 and early 2026 for rear brake binding, rear exhaust leakage and windscreen‑wiper inefficiency. Although the latest test was a pass, the recurrence of the same front‑wheel bearing play and thin brake pads, together with the persistent corrosion notes, indicates a maintenance trend that is stabilising only after recent remedial work, but underlying wear and rust issues remain unresolved. At 61,790 miles for a 2007 model the average annual distance is just over 3,200 miles, which is well below the typical usage for a light‑commercial vehicle of this age. The low mileage suggests periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be a double‑edged sword: while mechanical wear on engine and transmission internals is likely modest, components that rely on regular movement – such as suspension bushings, brake hardware, wheel bearings and rubber seals – can deteriorate from inactivity. The pattern of mileage also implies that any high‑wear items may have been replaced relatively recently, but the vehicle’s age means that corrosion and material fatigue are still significant concerns. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front braking system: measure the remaining pad thickness (the legal minimum is 1 mm) and feel for any pulsation or increased pedal travel that could signal uneven wear or a developing calliper issue. The off‑side front wheel bearing, flagged repeatedly for slight play, should be examined for grinding or humming noises that intensify with road speed, and a test‑drive should include a left‑hand turn to load the bearing. The rear service brake that previously bound excessively must be inspected for seized caliper pistons, corroded brake lines or warped discs, with any shudder or pulling to one side indicating that the problem may not have been fully rectified. The underside corrosion noted on every MOT warrants a thorough visual inspection of the chassis rails, cross‑members and suspension mounting points for rust‑induced loss of section; any perforation or severe pitting could compromise structural rigidity and should be repaired before the vehicle is relied upon for heavy loads. Given the vehicle’s age and the documented corrosion, a buyer should also verify the condition of the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the tyres have been on the car for many years. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, as long periods of storage can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be checked for colour, level and any signs of contamination, and replaced if they have not been serviced within the manufacturer’s time‑based intervals. Finally, confirm that the rear exhaust leak recorded in 2024 has been remedied and that there are no lingering exhaust fumes in the cabin, and ensure the windscreen wiper now clears the glass effectively, as a non‑functional wiper can be a safety hazard in wet British weather.