2010 Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Petrol · LM10 KPY

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a reactive rather than preventative maintenance approach. While it passed its most recent test in February 2026 at 111,468 miles, it failed just prior due to a corroded rear brake pipe and a serious fluid leak on the nearside front shock absorber. This indicates that critical safety components are only being addressed once they reach a point of failure, suggesting a trend of deferred maintenance that could compromise long-term mechanical reliability. The recorded mileage of 111,468 miles over 16 years averages to approximately 7,000 miles per annum, which is consistent with low-to-moderate annual usage. However, the data shows a significant spike in activity between March 2024 (96,330 miles) and February 2025 (105,299 miles), where nearly 9,000 miles were covered in a single year. This increased usage coincides with a cluster of failures in early 2025, highlighting that the vehicle's components are struggling under the stress of more regular driving. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and braking system, as the record shows recurring issues with the rear outer suspension mounting areas. Although the 2025 advisory noted corrosion was not yet excessive sills, the presence of corroded brake pipes in 2026 suggests active oxidation. The history also reveals persistent braking faults, including a binding offside front caliper and imbalancing across both axles, which necessitates a professional check of the discs, calipers, and hydraulic lines to ensure even performance. The suspension requires close scrutiny following the failure for a worn nearside Macpherson strut top bush in 2025 and the subsequent shock absorber leak identified in early 2026. Given the previous failure for a tyre with exposed cords, the current condition of all rubber components and tyres must be verified for immediate safety. The pattern of mechanical failures suggests that the vehicle is nearing a stage where age-related wear on the suspension and braking hardware will likely occur more frequently.