2017 Mitsubishi Shogun 3.2L Diesel · LC65 LES

A pattern of repeated advisories across the last three MOT tests, combined with a single but significant failure in 2023, defines the mechanical picture of this Shogun. The 2025 test returned a pass, but with multiple tyres flagged as worn close to the legal limit on both edges, alongside a note that the underside is heavily coated in underseal, a cosmetic cover that can easily mask developing structural corrosion on the chassis, axles, and suspension mounting points. The previous 2024 test recorded a fuel tank exhibiting signs of seepage and an underperforming nearside washer jet, while the 2023 attempt failed outright on two major items: an inoperative engine management warning lamp and a confirmed power steering fluid leak from the steering rack or its associated pipework. Earlier tests in 2022 and 2023 show the vehicle was broadly sound, but the recurrence of brake-related advisories on both front discs and pads across 2023 points to a braking system that is now approaching the midpoint of its service life and is likely to require attention within the next twelve months of typical use. With 64,526 miles recorded over nine years, this Shogun has averaged around 7,170 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the expected band for its age and body style. There is no evidence of long-term storage or sudden spikes in mileage between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular, consistent use rather than subjected to short, harsh trips or extended periods of standing. That relatively steady usage pattern is mechanically reassuring, as it implies that consumables such as brake fluid, drive belts, and the automatic transmission fluid have been worked regularly, reducing the risk of internal corrosion in the gearbox and seized callipers that often plague low-mileage 4x4 vehicles. However, the figure still represents substantial real-world wear on suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and drivetrain components, all of which are heavily loaded by the Shogun's considerable unladen weight. Given the flagged components, any prospective inspection should begin with a thorough examination of the tyres. The 2025 advisories specified inner-edge wear on the offside front and both rear tyres, which on a live-axle 4x4 is commonly symptomatic of tracking misalignment, worn steering or suspension linkages, or collapsed coil springs. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly when turning, as this may indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, track rod ends, or bottom arm bushes. Pay close attention to steering behaviour; a drift to one side under braking, a vague front end, or any continuation of fluid weeping beneath the power steering rack would warrant immediate professional assessment, particularly in light of the 2023 major failure for a confirmed steering fluid leak. Also check the steering feel for any hesitation or inconsistent assistance, which could suggest air ingress or rack wear. The braking system warrants close scrutiny on a road test, as both front and rear discs were recorded as pitted or scored in 2023, even if not seriously weakened at the time. Under firm braking from around 40 mph, the pedal should feel firm and the vehicle should stop squarely. Any judder through the pedal, vibration through the steering wheel, or a pulling sensation to either side would suggest the discs have now worn beyond their skim tolerance and require replacement. On the underside, the noted underseal coating demands careful probing with a screwdriver or torch around the chassis rails, subframe mounts, brake and fuel pipe unions, and suspension pick-up points, as underseal can conceal significant corrosion that would otherwise be readily visible. Finally, verify that the engine management warning lamp illuminates with the ignition and extinguishes promptly on start-up, since its inoperative state at the 2023 test could indicate an underlying sensor or emissions issue, and request confirmation that any historic power steering repair has been carried out using genuine components rather than a simple sealant fix.