2012 Chrysler Ypsilon 1.2L Petrol · GV12 HSD

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a PASS on 2025-08-12 at 37,655 miles, but the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly with the steering system and tyres. The steering system was flagged as slightly rough in both the 2025-08-11 failure and the subsequent 2025-08-12 pass, indicating that the underlying issue—likely worn suspension bushes or ball joints—was not fully resolved. The nearside front tyre sidewall damage has persisted across three MOTs since 2024, suggesting either ongoing structural stress or neglect in addressing the root cause. Additionally, the offside rear shock absorber bush failure reappeared after a previous repair, raising questions about the quality of past work. The recorded mileage of 37,655 over 14 years equates to an average of just under 2,700 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests the car may have been used infrequently or stored for extended periods, potentially leading to dry rot in rubber components, battery degradation, and moisture accumulation in the chassis. The most recent test occurred only ten months ago, but the gap between the 2024-08-21 failure and the 2024-09-13 pass was just over two weeks, implying rapid remedial action—possibly due to a single repair attempt rather than comprehensive inspection. The absence of any defects in the 2023-08-29 test indicates a period of stability, but the subsequent decline in reliability from 2024 onward is notable. A buyer must conduct a thorough in-person inspection of the front suspension, particularly the steering rack mounts and front control arms, given the repeated steering system warnings. The persistent tyre sidewall damage demands scrutiny of wheel alignment and suspension geometry; misalignment could be accelerating wear. The rear shock absorber bush issue points to potential fatigue in the rear suspension subframe or mounting points. The flickering central stop lamp and non-functional offside rear lamp indicate electrical faults that may stem from corroded wiring looms or poor earth connections—common in older vehicles. Structural integrity should also be verified, especially around the front bumper mounting areas where insecurity was noted, as hidden corrosion or impact damage could compromise safety.