2022 MG HS Excite 1.5L Petrol · LB71 DDA

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2022 MG HS EXCITE was conducted on 2025-12-17, resulting in a passing outcome despite ongoing advisories regarding the rear brake system. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly with the rear brake components. The test on 2025-12-16 resulted in a failure due to dangerous brake pad wear—specifically, pads being reduced to less than 1.5 mm thick and already reaching the wear indicator, which is a critical failure under UK law. This was followed by a major failure classification, indicating that the owner had not addressed the brake pad replacement promptly. The subsequent MOT on 2025-01-08 showed the advisories persisted, with the rear brake pads continuing to wear thin and the discs remaining worn, pitted, or scored but not yet to a point of structural compromise. This trend suggests that the brake system has been neglected, with the wear progression indicating that the vehicle has not undergone necessary maintenance to prevent further deterioration, which could lead to reduced braking performance or even failure under heavy loads. The recorded mileage of 26,265 miles for a 2022 MG HS EXCITE is consistent with a typical annual usage rate of around 6,566 miles, which aligns with moderate to light daily use over the past four years. While lower mileage might suggest periods of inactivity or less frequent driving, the current mileage does not appear excessive for a vehicle of this age, particularly given that the wear on consumables like brakes is more influenced by driving habits, braking frequency, and maintenance history rather than just distance traveled. However, the lack of service records or evidence of brake pad and disc replacement within the expected service intervals—typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles for a vehicle of this age—suggests that the owner may have been either unaware of the criticality of these components or prioritised other aspects of maintenance. The rapid accumulation of wear on the rear brake pads and discs, despite the mileage being within a reasonable range, underscores the importance of addressing braking system issues promptly to avoid further degradation and potential safety risks. Given the recurring advisories and failure history related to the rear brake system, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking components before proceeding with purchase. Focus on the rear brake pads, which should be visually inspected for remaining thickness—anything below 1.5 mm is unsafe and requires immediate replacement. Listen for unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the rear brake discs for pitting, scoring, or excessive glazing, which can impair braking efficiency and lead to uneven wear. Check for any signs of brake fluid leaks, which may suggest a failing brake master cylinder or hydraulic system. Additionally, examine the rear wheel bearings for excessive play or whining noises, as this can accompany brake system issues. If the buyer observes any binding calipers or corrosion on the brake discs, this could also point to prolonged standing or poor maintenance practices. Beyond the brakes, ensure the suspension components, particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs, are free of excessive play or clunking noises, which may indicate wear or damage. If the vehicle has been driven over rough terrain or has sustained impact damage, inspect the structural integrity of the chassis and body panels for signs of bending or corrosion. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, particularly one with a history of brake advisories, the buyer should also verify the condition of the tyres, as prolonged braking wear can accelerate tyre degradation. Check for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the tyres have been stored for extended periods without proper care. Inspect the tyre tread depth, ensuring it meets the legal minimum of 1.6 mm across the central ¾ of the tread. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power, especially during prolonged periods of inactivity. Finally, since the MG HS EXCITE is a relatively recent model, the buyer should confirm that all manufacturer-recommended services, such as fluid top-ups (brake fluid, coolant, and oil), have been conducted within the recommended intervals. Given the calendar-based degradation of fluids like brake fluid and coolant, even if mileage is moderate, these should be replaced every 2–3 years to prevent corrosion and loss of effectiveness. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the absence of hidden issues, such as exhaust emissions system faults or electrical gremlins, which may not appear on the MOT record but could affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness and performance.