2009 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5L Petrol · FN09 NTM

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Mitsubishi Colt was conducted on 2 May 2024, and the vehicle achieved a Pass classification. However, three advisory items were recorded at this examination, which continue a pattern that has been visible across the recent test history. Looking at the sequence from 2021 through 2024, the advisory count has remained consistently in the three to five range at each test, with recurring themes of exhaust gas leaks, corroded undercarriage and subframe components, and worn suspension parts. While the vehicle has not failed any test outright in the last four years aside from a single headlamp aim issue in 2022 that was subsequently corrected, the maintenance trend can best be described as stable but with ongoing age-related deterioration. There is no evidence of an improving picture, but neither is there a sharp worsening, which is broadly typical for a car of this age reaching the latter stages of its usable life. The recorded mileage of 87,144 miles against a 17-year vehicle age equates to approximately 5,126 miles per annum, which is substantially below the national average and represents low usage. The MOT history shows tests in 2019, 2020, 2021 (twice, including a failure and retest), 2022 (twice, including a failure and retest), and 2024, with mileage gaps that suggest periods of relative inactivity, particularly between 2022 and 2024. While low mileage is often associated with reduced wear on high-value drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it carries its own risks. Long periods of standing tend to accelerate corrosion on exposed underbody metal, accelerate tyre sidewall perishing due to UV exposure and prolonged static loading, and can lead to binding brake calipers, deteriorated brake fluid through moisture absorption, and a depleted 12V battery. The advisory history here, particularly the chassis beam and subframe corrosion entries, suggests this vehicle has been exposed to road salts and moisture over time despite the modest annual mileage. A prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection in addition to a road test. Begin with the undercarriage, paying close attention to the front subframe and rear chassis beam areas, where corrosion advisories have been repeatedly recorded, as these are load-bearing structural elements where advanced corrosion would be a serious concern. Inspect the rear coil springs for surface corrosion and cracking, and check the front anti-roll bar bushes for any slop or play, which would manifest as clonking or knocking noises over speed humps and during cornering. On a test drive, listen for exhaust leaks, particularly a ticking or hissing sound from beneath the front of the car that may increase with engine revs. Pay attention to brake feel, as the offside front wheel was previously noted as stiff to rotate, which could indicate a binding caliper, and check for brake shudder or pull under braking given the noted rear disc wear. Inspect the front shock absorber dust covers for deterioration and look for any oil staining on the casing that would suggest internal seal failure. Beyond the recorded advisories, age-appropriate checks are essential. The tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is a common issue on low-mileage vehicles that have aged out rather than worn out, and the production date code on the sidewall should be reviewed as tyres older than six years are generally considered to have reached the end of their safe service life regardless of tread depth. The 12V battery should be load tested, as a battery that has sat discharged or partially charged for extended periods suffers irreversible sulphation and may fail without warning. All fluid conditions and service intervals should be verified through the service book, with particular attention to brake fluid, which absorbs moisture over time and should typically be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, and coolant, which degrades chemically and can lead to corrosion within the cooling system. Finally, the exhaust system should be physically inspected on a ramp or with a torch for the source of the recurring minor leak, as exhaust components on a vehicle of this age are likely approaching the point of requiring replacement.