2004 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.6L Petrol · LS04 WWA

The most recent MOT test on the 2004 Mitsubishi Space Star occurred on 2025-05-23, resulting in a failure with three major defects and two advisories. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s prior MOT history, which predominantly showed either clean passes or minor issues without repeated failures. While the 2024-03-30 test passed, the subsequent failures in 2024 and 2025 indicate a concerning trend of recurring mechanical and structural concerns, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. The presence of multiple major faults—such as the near-side front suspension arm ball joint dust cover failure and the near-side front Macpherson strut top bush bearing wear—suggests either a lack of proactive maintenance or underlying component degradation that has not been adequately addressed. These failures point to a vehicle that has either been neglected or subjected to excessive stress, warranting immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 106,157 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents a relatively low annual mileage of around 4,825 miles, which is unusually low for its age. Such low usage could imply prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored without regular movement, leading to issues such as standing corrosion on the brake discs, calipers, and suspension components. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation over the last few years does not necessarily negate the need for thorough inspection, as standing corrosion and fluid degradation can still compromise structural integrity and roadworthiness. The discrepancy between the mileage and typical wear patterns for a vehicle of this age underscores the importance of a comprehensive visual and functional inspection to identify any hidden wear or deterioration that may not be reflected in the mileage alone. Given the recent MOT failures and the recurring advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection focusing on the suspension and braking systems. The near-side front Macpherson strut top bush bearing and suspension arm ball joint issues indicate that the vehicle exhibits excessive free play or binding, which could manifest as clunking noises from the front suspension during acceleration or cornering, or a feeling of uneven ride quality. On a test drive, listen for persistent clunks or rattles from the front suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at higher speeds, and check for any uneven tyre wear patterns that may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment. Additionally, inspect the brake system for signs of binding calipers, which could cause a grinding or shuddering sensation when braking, or excessive brake pad wear, which may lead to a spongy or uneven pedal feel. The advisories regarding rear brake pad wear and the need for brake disc inspection are critical, as thin pads or corroded discs can compromise braking performance and safety. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also address the engine MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) issues, which have appeared twice in the MOT history, indicating persistent engine problems. This could stem from a failing sensor, wiring issue, or more serious internal engine wear, and should be investigated thoroughly to prevent potential catastrophic failures. The registration plate deterioration and front headlamp lens defects are minor but should be rectified for both legal compliance and aesthetic reasons. For the suspension advisories, particularly the rear anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush wear, inspect the linkage for excessive movement or play, which could lead to uneven suspension travel and reduced handling stability. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the low mileage, the buyer should check for tyre sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure and reduce safety over time. Additionally, verify the 12V battery health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to corrosion or internal failure, and ensure all fluids—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—are at appropriate levels and not degraded by age. A thorough service history check, if available, would also be invaluable to confirm whether scheduled maintenance was performed, such as the mandatory fluid top-ups and component replacements recommended for a vehicle of this age.