2004 Mitsubishi Space Wagon 2.4L Petrol · LS53 VWW

The most recent MOT test on 20 December 2023 resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by advisories concerning chips in the windscreen and deterioration of the front registration plate, alongside minor items flagging slight defects to both headlamp lenses. Notably, an advisory was also raised for badly corroded fuel tank filler and breather pipes, an issue that has recurred across multiple tests and warrants close attention. The overall trend across the recorded MOT history is mixed and somewhat concerning: two failures appear within the available record, one in November 2020 for dangerously worn front brake pads and a headlamp aim defect, and a further failure in December 2022 for an incorrectly adjusted parking brake, an anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover failure, an excessively worn lower suspension arm ball joint, and an inoperative engine management indicator lamp. Although the vehicle passed the retest in each case and subsequently passed its 2023 test, the nature of the defects, particularly the suspension wear, the persistent fuel filler corrosion, and the recurring ABS and engine MIL warnings, suggests a vehicle whose maintenance has been reactive rather than preventative, and a prospective buyer should not view the current pass as conclusive evidence of sound mechanical condition. The recorded odometer reading of 108,500 miles against a 2004 registration equates to an annual average of roughly 4,932 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. This low usage figure carries its own mechanical implications, as prolonged standing periods can accelerate degradation of certain components, most particularly the brake system, where corrosion of discs and seizure of caliper slide pins are common, along with perishing of rubber components such as tyres, suspension bushes, drive belts, and coolant hoses. The MOT history records advisories for tyre cracking and edge wear on more than one occasion, which is consistent with the dual effects of age-related rubber deterioration and infrequent use. The relatively short intervals between tests in 2023, combined with the low annual mileage, suggest the vehicle may have been used intermittently, which should prompt checks for binding brakes, flat-spotted or perished tyres, and degraded fluids that are subject to calendar-based deterioration regardless of mileage covered. Given the recurring advisories relating to suspension components, particularly the nearside track rod end ball joint which exhibited slight play at both the 2020 and 2021 tests, and the corrosion noted around the rear suspension spring mountings and inner wheel arches, a thorough physical inspection of the underside is strongly recommended. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, ball joints, or anti-roll bar linkages, and should pay particular attention to any pulling to one side or vagueness in the steering, both of which would be consistent with the documented track rod end wear. The nearside rear brake disc was previously noted as worn, pitted, or scored, so brake pedal feel should be assessed for any shudder or pulsation under firm application, and the handbrake should be tested on an incline to confirm that the adjustment carried out in 2022 has remained effective. Given the corrosion advisories around the fuel filler neck and breather pipes, the area should be inspected for any signs of fuel smells, weeping, or further structural deterioration that could present a fire risk or fail a future MOT. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, a vehicle of this age and low usage profile demands attention to several time-sensitive service items. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries typically degrade after five to seven years regardless of use, and a failing battery can produce erratic warning lights including the ABS and engine management faults previously recorded. All fluid conditions should be verified, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid, with brake fluid being particularly susceptible to moisture absorption over time. The timing belt, if not already replaced on schedule, is a critical item on a 2004 Mitsubishi, and the service history should be examined to confirm it has been renewed at the manufacturer-recommended interval. Tyres should be carefully inspected for sidewall cracking and perishing rather than simply tread depth, as age-hardened rubber is a common failure point on low-mileage vehicles. Finally, a thorough inspection for oil leaks, evidenced by the advisory noted in January 2023, and a compression test on the engine would be prudent given the vehicle's age, to confirm internal mechanical health before purchase.