2004 Mitsubishi Carisma 1.9L Diesel · GY04 AAJ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2023-10-24 at 102,408 miles resulted in a failure, though no defects were recorded. Previous tests from 2022-10-21 (96,935 miles) and 2022-10-14 (96,920 miles) showed inconsistent outcomes, with one pass and one fail, but again no defects noted. This pattern suggests the car may have passed due to minimal technical issues or procedural factors, with no evidence of escalating mechanical faults. The absence of recorded defects in multiple tests implies the vehicle has maintained basic roadworthiness, though the 2023 failure warrants scrutiny for potential overlooked concerns. The car’s mileage of 102,408 miles at 22 years old averages 4,655 miles annually, significantly lower than typical usage. This suggests infrequent operation or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. Notably, the 2020-10-15 test at 85,072 miles showed no defects, while the 2021-10-15 test at 89,806 miles also passed without issues. The gap between 2020 and 2022 saw a 11,862-mile increase over two years, followed by a 5,486-mile rise in 2023. Such irregularities may indicate intermittent use, increasing the risk of hidden wear in systems like the exhaust, suspension, or braking components. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the underbody for rust, particularly around the chassis and exhaust system, given the low mileage and potential for stagnant fluids. Suspension components, including bushes and coil springs, should be checked for dryness or cracking, as infrequent use can lead to premature wear. Brake discs and calipers require scrutiny for corrosion or binding, while the steering and wheel bearings should be tested for play. The lack of recorded defects does not eliminate these risks, as the MOT history lacks detailed technical findings, leaving room for unaddressed issues to persist.