2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Diesel · FP60 CWF

Front suspension wear is the defining theme of this Lancer's record, with ball joint and bush advisories appearing on the front axle in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023 and again at the latest test on 6 November 2025, which it passed with slight play flagged in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and both front anti-roll bar ball joints. The trend is one of gradual, managed deterioration rather than sudden failure: the car has passed every test since a single failure in November 2020 for an inoperative nearside front position lamp, which was rectified and passed the same day. However, the spread of play across multiple front-end joints suggests the suspension is wearing as a system rather than one isolated component, and the 2024 advisory for blue exhaust smoke under acceleration points to oil entering the combustion process, typically via worn valve stem seals or piston rings on a higher-mileage engine. At 147,071 miles over roughly sixteen years, the car has averaged about 9,200 miles annually, a typical accumulation rate with consistent November testing and no significant gaps in the record. This steady use pattern means wear has been progressive and predictable rather than the result of long lay-ups, but it also means consumables and chassis components have accumulated genuine mileage-related fatigue. The recurring rear brake binding advisories in 2022, worn rear tyres flagged the same year, and the repeated minor defect of an insecure battery across 2020, 2021 and 2022 indicate some items were noted more than once before resolution, so a buyer should verify these were actually rectified rather than merely tolerated. On a test drive, the priority is the front suspension. Listen for knocking or clunking over uneven surfaces and speed bumps, which would indicate the ball joints and anti-roll bar links have progressed beyond slight play, and check for vague or wandering steering that could reflect the track rod end wear noted in 2020 and 2021. With the car stationary, have an assistant rock the steering while you feel for free play, and inspect the front suspension arm bushes for perishing or separation, given the 2019 advisories on both sides. Additionally, observe the exhaust under hard acceleration for blue smoke, ideally on a cold start and after a sustained run, since oil burning tends to worsen and can lead to catalytic converter damage and future emissions failures. Check the rear brakes for binding by feeling for excessive heat at the rear wheels after a drive and noting any pulling under braking, and confirm the battery is now securely clamped. Finally, ask for evidence of coolant system attention, as a low coolant level was noted in 2020; unexplained coolant loss on an engine already showing oil consumption would warrant particular caution before purchase.