2015 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.0L Petrol · LS15 HTF

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 24 March 2026, which is a positive result, although the test history shows a deteriorating pattern over the preceding twelve months that warrants close attention. At the 2025 test the vehicle passed cleanly aside from a minor registration plate lamp issue and continuing tyre advisories, but in March 2026 it initially failed on two major defects concerning the rear shock absorber bushes and a non-functioning rear nearside stop lamp, before being presented for a retest the following day and passing once those items were presumably rectified. The persistence of the rear tyre perishing advisories across multiple tests suggests that this is an age-related deterioration rather than a one-off finding, and the sudden appearance of suspension and lighting majors indicates that previously latent wear has progressed to a point requiring immediate intervention. Overall, the maintenance trend is one of gradual worsening, with the rear axle area in particular showing repeated concerns across the most recent inspections. With a recorded mileage of 97,469 miles over an eleven-year life, this Mirage has covered approximately 8,860 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no obvious extended gaps in the mileage progression between tests, suggesting reasonably consistent usage rather than long periods of standing, which is generally favourable for mechanical components such as the brakes, clutch, and underbody. However, at this accumulated mileage, consumable wear on items such as the timing chain, clutch, gearbox mounts, and exhaust system should be anticipated, and the fact that the rear suspension bushes have already failed suggests that other rubber and bush components elsewhere in the chassis may be approaching the end of their service life. The mileage figure itself is not exceptional, but the combination of age and accumulated use means that age-related degradation of rubber, plastics, and electrical components will compound the wear-based deterioration. Given the recurring advisories on the nearside and offside rear tyres for cracking and perishing, a prospective buyer should carry out a close visual inspection of all four tyres, paying particular attention to the sidewalls for signs of ozone cracking, brittleness, and small fissures even where the tread depth remains legal. Tyre rubber on a vehicle of this vintage deteriorates through age as much as through use, and tyres more than six years old should be replaced regardless of remaining tread. The rear shock absorber bushes that recently failed are a significant indicator of broader suspension wear, and on a test drive one should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear axle when traversing uneven surfaces, speed humps, or potholes, as well as any instability or excessive body roll during cornering. It would be prudent to have the front suspension bushes, drop links, and anti-roll bar mountings inspected at the same time, as these items often fail in tandem on a high-mileage supermini. Beyond the documented advisories, a buyer should also verify that the rear stop lamp repair noted at the recent test has been carried out properly, and confirm that all other rear lighting functions correctly, as electrical faults on older Mitsubishis can sometimes recur. The brake discs, particularly the rear ones, should be checked for corrosion pitting and the calipers for any signs of binding, given that the vehicle may have experienced periods of light use interspersed with longer journeys. Given the age of the car, the 12V battery should be load tested, and the engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid should be inspected for condition and replacement history, as these degrade with calendar age irrespective of mileage. Finally, checking the service book for regular stamp history and verifying that the timing chain or belt, spark plugs, and air filter have been changed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals will provide valuable reassurance that this Mirage has been maintained to a satisfactory standard.