2002 Alfa Romeo 147 1.6L Petrol · GK02 AYO

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2023‑10‑06 recorded a pass but listed advisories for an offside front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint with slight play, a nearside front outer drive‑shaft constant‑velocity boot severely deteriorated and a nearside rear tyre slightly damaged. A concurrent failure entry on the same date noted the same anti‑roll bar joint, the deteriorating CV boot, insufficient washer fluid and the rear tyre damage, indicating that unresolved defects remain. The pattern of recurring suspension wear, drivetrain component degradation and structural corrosion shows a worsening trend despite the low overall mileage. Mileage progression from 114 044 mi on 2022‑10‑05 to 123 263 mi on 2023‑10‑06 added 9 219 mi in a single year, a rate above the long‑term average of roughly 5 136 mi per year since 2002. Earlier intervals show similar modest increases, and the record contains gaps after 2016 where no tests were logged, suggesting periods of irregular inspection rather than continuous low‑use operation. A buyer should inspect the nearside front outer CV joint boot for cracking or oil leakage, the offside front anti‑roll bar ball joint for excess play, and the offside front upper suspension arm for excessive wear. Brake discs and pads show progressive thinning and pitting; the rear brake calliper mounting must be checked for insecurity. Shock absorbers have progressed from oil misting to a serious fluid leak, and steering rack play is documented. Structural corrosion appears on rear panels and the underbody; rust on suspension components, the exhaust flex pipe and the rear floor pan is evident. Door mechanisms, seat‑belt buckles, lighting functions and the windscreen washer system also require functional verification. The low mileage masks age‑related deterioration; the history reveals a pattern of neglected suspension, drivetrain and corrosion issues that have accumulated over two decades. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection focusing on the CV boots, suspension geometry, brake system, shock absorbers, steering play, exhaust integrity and underbody rust is essential before any acquisition.