1992 Toyota MR2 2.0L Petrol · J765 CDT

A persistent corrosion theme dominates the MOT record, with both near‑side and off‑side integral body structures flagged in the 2025 test and earlier, and rear chassis corrosion noted as well. The most recent pass on 25 February 2025 still carried advisories for these rust‑affected areas, a minor exhaust leak and a non‑excessive oil seep, showing that the car meets the legal minimum but that underlying metalwork is progressively deteriorating. At 145,112 mi for a 2000‑model, the average annual accumulation is roughly 5,600 mi, well below the typical usage for a sports‑car of this age. The low mileage suggests periods of limited running or extended storage, which can exacerbate surface rust and moisture‑related corrosion – a pattern reflected in the repeated structural advisories. The mileage history also shows long gaps between tests (no recorded results between 2013 and 2019), meaning that wear on consumables such as brakes, suspension bushings and tyres may be uneven and could have progressed unnoticed during those intervals. When inspecting the vehicle, focus first on the corrosion‑prone areas: probe the near‑side and off‑side sills, floor panels and rear chassis for flaking paint, soft spots or rust that penetrates beyond surface coating. A flex test on the bodywork should reveal any loss of rigidity; listen for rattles when the car is driven over bumps, which can indicate rust‑weakened mounting points. The exhaust system should be examined for a small leak – look for soot or carbon deposits around joints and listen for a faint hissing at idle. Follow any oil seep to its source; even a non‑excessive leak can point to deteriorating gaskets or seals that may worsen under load. The brake pipe corrosion noted in 2012 and the front brake disc pitting recorded in 2019 merit close attention: check both front brake pipes for visible rust and test the hand‑brake for a firm pull, while feeling for any pedal pulsation that could signal disc thinning. Wheel bearing play was flagged on the near‑side front in 2013 and again as a failure in 2012; spin each wheel and listen for grinding or feel for lateral movement. Anti‑roll bar bushings and ball joints, which failed in 2013, should be inspected for excessive play or cracked rubber, and any steering pull or clunk over uneven surfaces would confirm wear. Finally, verify that all lamps (position, fog and rear) function correctly, that the wiper clears the screen effectively, and that the battery is securely mounted – all of which were recorded as failures in earlier years and can be quickly checked during a pre‑purchase test drive.