2004 Alfa Romeo 147 1.9L Diesel · LL04 ABX

The most recent MOT on 17 April 2023 was a pass, but it still recorded a minor defect – the near‑side front drive‑shaft constant‑velocity boot was severely deteriorated. Earlier in the same year the car failed, citing thin rear brake pads, insufficient parking‑brake efficiency, an excessively worn off‑side front upper suspension arm bush, and a dangerous modification to the near‑side front outer bodywork. The 2022 MOT also highlighted a worn near‑side front suspension arm pin/bush and a couple of light‑and‑washer failures. Overall the maintenance trend appears to be deteriorating: recurring wear on front suspension components and the drive‑shaft boot, coupled with brake and parking‑brake issues, suggests that the vehicle has not benefited from timely corrective work and may be entering a phase of increasing mechanical concern. At 144,934 miles recorded for a 2004 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,600 miles per year, which is within normal UK usage patterns. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded mileage that would indicate prolonged periods of storage, but the relatively modest annual figure does imply that the car has not been heavily abused. Nevertheless, even moderate mileage over 22 years can lead to cumulative wear on bushings, boots, and braking components, especially when the vehicle has been subjected to the seasonal temperature swings typical in the UK. The mileage level also means that many wear items – suspension bushings, CV joints, brake discs and pads – are likely approaching the end of their service lives unless they have been replaced recently. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and drivetrain. Inspect the off‑side upper arm bush for cracked or shredded rubber and check for any play when the wheel is rocked vertically and laterally; excessive movement will feel like a clunk or looseness during cornering. The near‑side front CV boot should be examined for cracks, tears or leaking grease – a failed boot can allow contaminants into the joint, leading to joint collapse and noisy, jerky acceleration. The rear brake pads should be measured for thickness; pads below 2 mm are unsafe and will need replacement, and the condition of the discs should be checked for scoring or rust that could cause shudder under braking. The parking brake should be tested for firm hold; a weak or uneven pull often indicates worn shoes, a stretched cable or a failing rear‑drum mechanism. Finally, the body modification noted as dangerous should be inspected to ensure it does not interfere with steering geometry or brake line routing, as any misalignment can affect handling and safety. Given the car’s age, independent of the recorded defects, the buyer should also verify the condition of age‑sensitive items. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear, especially if the tyres have been on the vehicle for several years; replace any that show hardening or bulges. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify it holds charge under load, as batteries over 10 years often fail unexpectedly. Look for corrosion on brake caliper pins, suspension mounting points and under‑body panels, which can be exacerbated by long periods of standing. Inspect all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and consider a full flush if the service history does not show recent changes, as fluids degrade with time and can affect component longevity. A thorough visual inspection of the service booklet for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any recorded replacement of the CV boots or suspension bushes will give further confidence in the vehicle’s upkeep.