2004 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.4L Petrol · GL04 SLZ

The Mitsubishi Grandis has successfully passed its most recent MOT in June 2026, though the history indicates a recurring pattern of maintenance requirements that suggests a vehicle requiring consistent attention to consumables. While the car remains roadworthy, the persistent advisories regarding brake disc condition and sub-frame corrosion indicate that the vehicle is experiencing age-related degradation. The transition from a failure in 2026 due to a tyre defect to a pass shortly thereafter confirms that the owner is addressing immediate safety issues, but the repeated warnings regarding the braking system and structural components point toward a need for proactive rather than reactive maintenance moving forward. With a recorded mileage of 110,204 over twenty-two years, the vehicle averages approximately 5,009 miles per annum, which is relatively low for a large multi-purpose vehicle of this era. This usage profile often results in components suffering from lack of regular movement rather than high-mileage wear. While the engine and drivetrain may have been spared the stress of heavy motorway use, the mechanical systems are susceptible to the effects of long periods of standing, such as seized brake calipers, perished rubber seals, and internal corrosion within the fuel or cooling systems. You should verify whether the low annual mileage is supported by a comprehensive service history, as time-based maintenance like cambelt replacements and fluid changes is just as critical as mileage-based servicing for a vehicle of this age. On your test drive, pay close attention to the braking performance, as the recurring advisories for pitted and scored discs suggest that the friction surfaces are likely corroded or unevenly worn. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes and check for a pulsating sensation through the pedal, which would indicate warped discs. Furthermore, the persistent advisories regarding sub-frame corrosion necessitate a physical inspection underneath the vehicle. Use a torch to examine the structural mounting points for flaky rust or structural thinning. Any clunking or knocking noises from the underside when driving over uneven surfaces may indicate that the suspension bushes or ball joints, which have been noted as a failure point in the past, are nearing the end of their service life. Finally, the headlamp lens degradation noted in multiple MOTs is a common cosmetic issue on older vehicles that can eventually impact light output and beam pattern. While currently acceptable, you should test the lights at night to ensure visibility is adequate. Given the age of the vehicle, you must also inspect the tyre sidewalls for fine cracks or perishing, as low-mileage cars often retain tyres long past their safe lifespan, even if the tread depth remains legal. Check the 12V battery for signs of age-related failure, such as slow cranking, and confirm that all fluids, particularly the coolant and brake fluid, appear clean and have been changed recently, as neglected fluids are a significant risk factor for a vehicle that has spent considerable time stationary.