2009 Mitsubishi Colt 1.3L Petrol · LB09 BCK

A persistent pattern of tyre-related advisories across multiple test cycles forms the defining mechanical story of this Mitsubishi Colt. The most recent test on 14 January 2026 produced a pass, but only after a same-day failure was recorded for an illuminated Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) warning lamp, which is a non-negotiable safety item under the MOT regime. Prior to that, the 2025, 2023 and 2021 tests each carried advisories for tyres worn close to the legal limit or perished, predominantly on the offside rear. With an SRS fault now in the record and repeated rubber deterioration flagged over consecutive years, the vehicle presents a mixed roadworthiness profile: fundamentally drivable, but with specific safety and consumable concerns that warrant direct attention. The recorded mileage of 70,783 miles over 17 years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 4,160 miles, which is considerably below typical usage for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage can be beneficial in limiting wear on major drivetrain components, but it also raises the likelihood of extended standing periods, during which brake discs corrode, suspension bushes dry out, and seals can harden. The test history shows relatively even annual testing from 2019 onwards with mileage progression that appears consistent with light, steady use rather than long gaps or sudden jumps. A prospective buyer should, however, remain mindful that a low-mileage Colt may have had periods of inactivity that are not directly visible from the MOT record alone. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the specific damaged buckle noted on the central rear seat belt, a physical inspection of these items should be a priority. The offside front tyre was flagged as worn close to the legal limit and worn on edge on the most recent test, and the offside rear has been repeatedly identified across four separate examinations, suggesting either a wheel alignment issue or simply a tendency for that axle to consume rubber more quickly. On a test drive, listen for any uneven tyre noise that could indicate camber wear, and visually inspect the offside rear for both tread depth and sidewall cracking. The central rear seat belt buckle should be checked for positive latching and any signs of cracking or deformation around the housing. The SRS warning lamp failure from January 2026 is the single most significant item in this record and requires confirmation that the fault has been properly diagnosed and rectified rather than simply cleared from the system. On inspection, the airbag system should be interrogated with a diagnostic tool to confirm no stored fault codes remain, and the passenger airbag deactivation switch, seat occupancy sensor and pre-tensioner connections under the front seats should all be examined, as these are common sources of intermittent SRS warnings in older Mitsubishis. Beyond the recorded defects, a test drive should include firm brake applications to check for judder or pulsing that could indicate corroded front discs, and the car should be driven over broken surfaces to listen for clonks from the front suspension, as the Colts of this era are known for wear in the front strut top mounts and lower control arm bushes. Steering should be checked for any pulling or vagueness, and a thorough underbody examination for corrosion is advisable given the vehicle's age.