2007 Mitsubishi Colt 1.1L Petrol · FP07 MBU

This 2007 Mitsubishi Colt successfully passed its most recent MOT test in July 2026 with a single advisory noting a minor exhaust gas leak from the rear section. Looking back across the preceding test history, the maintenance trend reveals a mixture of typical consumable replacements and recurring minor structural and rubber degradation. While the vehicle has managed to secure consecutive annual passes since 2020, the 2024 record included several major failures such as a deep tyre cut, excessive wear in the offside front track rod end and anti-roll bar linkage, alongside windscreen wiper issues. These resolved major defects, combined with persistent lower-level advisories for tyre perishing and corrosion on the rear coil springs, suggest a vehicle that requires vigilant upkeep rather than suffering from systemic neglect, though it demands careful pre-purchase scrutiny of its running gear. The recorded mileage stands at 68,016 miles, which equates to an annual average of roughly 3,580 miles over its nineteen-year lifespan. This very low usage profile indicates that the Colt has likely spent extended periods parked or running only short local journeys. While low mileage preserves the powertrain and structural integrity from high-speed wear, it introduces specific age-related vulnerabilities. Vehicles that sit idle frequently suffer from accelerated degradation of rubber components, such as suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls, alongside internal battery sulfation and moisture accumulation within the exhaust system and brake fluids. Prospective buyers must verify the service history to ensure that routine maintenance has been performed on a calendar basis rather than waiting for mileage thresholds to be met. Given the recurrence of tyre perishing noted in multiple MOT tests, including warnings about cracking and ageing rubber from 2022 through 2025, a thorough physical inspection of all four tyres is essential. Look closely at the sidewalls and tread blocks for fine spider-web cracking, and check the date codes to ensure the tyres have not hardened beyond safe operational limits. Similarly, the 2023 test noted corrosion on both rear coil springs, so inspect these components with a torch to ensure the surface rust has not penetrated the structural depth of the steel. The 2026 advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak warrants a close look at the rear silencer and tailpipe joints, where you should listen for a slight blowing noise and check for black soot tracking around the flanges when the engine is running. On the test drive, pay close attention to the steering and suspension systems, recalling the previous suspension linkage and track rod failures recorded in 2024. Listen for any sharp knocks, clunks, or rattles when navigating potholes or speed humps, and ensure the steering centers correctly without excessive play or wandering on straight roads. Test the parking brake thoroughly on an incline, keeping in mind past advisories regarding lever travel and adjustment, to ensure it holds the car firmly without requiring excessive pull-up force. Finally, check that the brake pedal feels firm and progressive without any shuddering, which would indicate warped discs resulting from light use or caliper binding from standing.