2023 MG 5 SE Electric · LS23 ELW

The defining mechanical story of this 2023 MG 5 SE centres on a developing front and rear suspension concern that has now appeared across consecutive MOT tests, alongside front tyre wear that is consistently presenting on both outer edges. The most recent test on 19 May 2026 was recorded as both a pass and a fail on the same date, with the failure likely relating to the offside rear shock absorber showing a reduced damping effect, a condition that would render the vehicle unroadworthy until rectified. Prior to this, the November 2025 tests returned clean passes aside from a single rear brake pad advisory, while the May 2025 test introduced the nearside rear shock oil misting that has persisted across every subsequent examination. The pattern indicates suspension dampers that have moved from minor seepage to functional degradation within a twelve-month window, which warrants close attention given the vehicle's relatively young age. With 120,685 miles recorded on a car approximately three years old, this MG 5 has accumulated at a rate of roughly 40,228 miles per year, a workload that places significant demand on consumable and mechanical components alike. High annual mileage of this nature typically accelerates wear on friction materials, tyres, steering and suspension components, and drivetrain items such as the clutch and transmission mounts. There are no extended gaps in the testing history to suggest prolonged standing, and the mileage accumulation appears consistent with commercial, fleet, or long-distance commuting use rather than intermittent running. Mechanically, the consequence is that brake discs, pads, tyres, and suspension bushes will reach the end of their effective service life considerably sooner than on a typically used vehicle of the same age, and any advisories recorded should be treated as a leading indicator of imminent replacement rather than distant concerns. For a prospective buyer, the suspension advisories are the most pressing items to investigate physically. The nearside rear shock absorber oil misting and the offside rear reduced damping effect should prompt a close inspection of all four dampers, including the front units which have not yet been flagged but may be approaching similar wear given the mileage. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the rear over uneven surfaces, pay attention to excessive body roll through corners, and observe whether the vehicle settles unevenly after being pushed down at each corner. Check for any uneven tyre wear across the rear axle as well, which can indicate worn shock damping allowing uncontrolled wheel movement. The front tyres wearing on both outer edges is a classic symptom of either incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension geometry, or under-inflation, so verify that the tracking has been checked recently and inspect the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar links, and strut top mounts for any play when the wheel is rocked by hand. The rear brake pad advisory from November 2025 is also relevant given the high mileage, as the pads will have continued to wear since that recording. On inspection, examine the rear brake discs for lipping, scoring, or corrosion around the outer edge, and check the caliper sliders for binding which is common on higher-mileage vehicles. Test the brakes progressively from speed to ensure there is no pull to either side, which would suggest uneven pad wear or a seizing caliper. Finally, the minor front windscreen damage should be examined to ensure it remains outside the driver's swept area and has not progressed, and a thorough under-bonnet inspection should look for any signs of fluid leaks from the rear shock absorber upper mountings, as oil misting at the bodywork side of the damper often becomes more pronounced as the seal deteriorates further.