1975 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow 6.8L Petrol · HRV 500N

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 July 2025, was passed but recorded advisories for slight play on both rear wheel bearings. Earlier tests show a mixed picture: a failure for parking‑brake efficiency in December 2018, a series of passes with no defects in 2019, 2020 and 2023, and a failure in August 2016 for a headlamp, washer system and a worn off‑side track‑rod ball joint. Since 2016 the record has moved from outright failures to advisory‑only findings, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance has generally improved and that the current condition is stable, albeit with a persistent rear‑bearing concern that should be monitored. With a recorded 25,109 miles on a 1975 Rolls‑Royce Silver Shadow, the average annual mileage works out to roughly 490 miles per year. Such a low utilisation suggests long periods of storage or very light use, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in an ageing car. The limited wear on moving parts is offset by the risk of seals drying out, corrosion developing on stationary components, and rubber items such as hoses, belts and tyre sidewalls deteriorating with age rather than distance. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT timeline, but the sparse mileage underscores the need to verify that the car has not been idle for extended stretches without appropriate preservation measures. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear wheel bearings that have been flagged repeatedly for slight play. On a test drive listen for a faint growl or rumble that changes with the load on the rear axle, and feel for any looseness when the wheel is rocked at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions. Excessive play may indicate worn bearing races or insufficient greasing, and replacement is advisable before the condition worsens to a full failure. The 2018 parking‑brake inefficiency suggests the hand‑brake mechanism may need adjustment or refurbishment; verify that the brake holds firmly on a hill and that the pedal travel is consistent. Although the brake pipe corrosion noted in 2014 was only slight, a visual inspection of the entire hydraulic line for rust, pitting or leaking joints is prudent, especially given the vehicle’s age. The off‑side track‑rod ball joint that was previously excessive should be checked for any play in the steering feel, and the headlamp and washer system should be confirmed as fully operational before purchase. Given the car’s vintage status and low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or loss of tread even if the depth appears adequate, as rubber can degrade over decades regardless of use. Inspect the battery for sulphation, ensure it holds charge and consider a load test; a 50‑year‑old battery is likely beyond its service life. Check all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, gearbox oil, brake fluid and coolant – for colour, clarity and proper level, and arrange a complete change if the last service date is uncertain. Look for corrosion on the chassis, suspension bushes, coil springs and exhaust system, and verify that the under‑seal mentioned in 2014 remains intact. Finally, request any service book stamps, receipts for bearing or brake work, and confirm that the vehicle has been stored in a dry environment; these records will help substantiate that the low mileage has not concealed neglect of time‑based maintenance.