2004 Rover 25 1.4L Petrol · GU54 YLR

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a recent downward trend in mechanical condition. While the 2023 and 2024 tests showed no defects, the March 2026 inspection revealed significant deterioration. The car failed on 4 March 2026 due to major leaks in both the front exhaust flexi and the rear exhaust box, alongside defective headlamp lenses and a faulty windscreen wiper. Although it passed a retest on 5 March 2026, the tester recorded several ongoing advisories including a coolant leak, an oil leak, and slight seepage from the power steering rack. The mileage pattern indicates very low usage for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,892 miles per year. The recorded mileage grew from 52,903 in March 2023 to 63,621 in March 2026. This slow accumulation suggests the car spends significant time stationary, which often correlates with the type of seal and gasket issues seen in the most recent records. The jump from 55,990 miles in 2024 to 60,095 miles in 2025 shows a slight increase in usage, but the overall profile remains that of a low-mileage vehicle. A prospective buyer must prioritize a physical inspection of the engine bay and underbody. The recurring mentions of coolant and oil leaks, combined with power steering rack seepage, suggest aging seals that may require more substantial repairs if they worsen. The recent exhaust failure indicates that the exhaust system is reaching the end of its service life. Given the low mileage and the age of the vehicle, I recommend checking for signs of corrosion on the chassis and inspecting all rubber components, such as suspension bushes and hoses, which can perish from lack of use. The March 2025 advisory regarding a binding nearside front service brake also warrants attention. While the 2026 test did not repeat this specific fault, the history of binding calipers and the current fluid leaks suggest that the braking system and hydraulic integrity should be thoroughly verified before purchase.