2004 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.4L Petrol · LR54 PBY

The most recent MOT test on the 2004 Mitsubishi Grandis occurred on 2021-11-10 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a significant improvement in its roadworthiness following a series of failures in the preceding years. Prior to this, the vehicle had multiple MOT failures between 2018 and 2021, with recurring major issues such as faulty rear brake components, defective headlamps, engine warning light malfunctions, and exhaust emissions failures. While the 2021-11-08 failure highlighted persistent hydraulic brake system vulnerabilities—including a twisted brake hose and leaking calliper—which could indicate underlying wear or manufacturing defects, the subsequent clean pass suggests either corrective action was taken or the issues were mitigated. The 2020 and 2019 failures, however, reveal a concerning pattern of structural and functional wear, particularly in the suspension and lighting systems, alongside persistent engine-related advisories. The vehicle’s recent stability in MOT compliance should be viewed cautiously, as the history suggests underlying long-term wear that may require proactive attention. The recorded mileage of 106,223 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an unusually low annual mileage of around 4,819 miles, which is far below the average for its class. Such low usage typically implies either infrequent operation or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate certain types of wear. For instance, standing for extended periods can lead to corrosion in brake systems, particularly in the rear where the 2020 and 2021 failures were noted, as moisture can penetrate seals and cause hydraulic failure. Additionally, the near-legal wear on the offside front tyre in 2020 and the exposed ply on the offside rear tyre in 2020 suggest that the vehicle may have been driven at lower speeds or with reduced load, which can accelerate tyre wear patterns. The rapid accumulation of mileage in some periods—evident in the MOT failures—could indicate more aggressive use, potentially accelerating wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and fluid systems. The combination of low mileage and historical MOT failures underscores the need for a thorough inspection to identify any hidden issues exacerbated by prolonged inactivity. Given the vehicle’s history of MOT failures, particularly the recurring major defects in the rear brake system, offside headlamps, and engine diagnostics, the prospective buyer should prioritise a comprehensive mechanical inspection. Focus on the rear brake assembly, including the hydraulic lines and callipers, as the twisted hose and leaks from 2021 suggest compromised integrity. Listen for uneven brake pedal travel, sponginess, or a soft feel, which may indicate air in the system or failing seals. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues, and check for any fluid leaks around the brake components. The offside headlamps and their associated lenses and aim should be thoroughly examined, with a test drive to verify that both beams are correctly aligned and that neither is excessively dimmed or misaligned. The engine warning light’s persistence in previous MOTs warrants a diagnostic check for underlying electrical or sensor issues, as well as a review of the exhaust emissions system, given the historical CO2 readings. Additionally, the fractured rear anti-roll bar bracket from 2020 indicates a structural weakness that may require further investigation, particularly if the vehicle has been subjected to significant lateral loads. For a vehicle of this age and mileage profile, the buyer should also conduct a series of practical checks that address both wear and age-related degradation. Given the low annual mileage, the tyre condition is particularly critical, with a focus on sidewall perishing, which can occur even with minimal use due to exposure to UV light and oxygen. Visually inspect the sidewalls for cracks, delamination, or dry rot, as these can compromise tyre integrity and lead to sudden failure. The suspension components, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be examined for signs of excessive play, corrosion, or wear. On a test drive, look for clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when transitioning between bumps or at low speeds, which may indicate failing bushes or worn struts. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as low usage can lead to battery degradation or sulphation. Fluid levels, particularly the brake fluid, engine oil, and coolant, should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a reminder that fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the service history should be verified, particularly for the timing of fluid changes and suspension servicing, as the vehicle’s age necessitates attention to time-based maintenance to avoid catastrophic failures. If the service records are incomplete, a professional inspection to confirm the absence of hidden wear or corrosion is strongly advised.