2009 Mitsubishi Colt 1.3L Petrol · LX59 XCL

The most recent MOT on 6 August 2026 recorded a failure, chiefly for a defective registration‑plate lamp and two rear direction‑indicator lamps showing the wrong colour, both classified as major defects. In addition the test noted the same front sub‑frame corrosion advisory that has been recurring for three consecutive years and an advisory for rear inner‑sill corrosion. The presence of a dangerous anti‑roll‑bar linkage pin or bush issue on the 2025 test, although not repeated in 2026, indicates that the vehicle’s condition has been deteriorating rather than stabilising, with corrosion and lighting faults now escalating from advisories to outright failures. At 79,258 mi the 2009 Colt averages roughly 4,600 mi per annum, which is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often points to periods of infrequent use or extended storage, which can exacerbate corrosion, rubber hardening and fluid breakdown even though the kilometre count is modest. The modest wear on drivetrain and tyre treads is likely, but the vehicle’s age means that components subject to calendar ageing – such as seals, hoses, rubber bushings and the battery – may be approaching the end of their service lives despite the low mileage. A prospective buyer should give the front sub‑frame a thorough visual inspection for any progression of rust beyond the advisory description, paying particular attention to the welds and mounting points for the engine and suspension. Any signs of flaking, pitting or loss of metal thickness could compromise structural rigidity and may be felt as a flexing or clunking sensation when applying throttle or braking. The rear inner sills should also be examined for rust that could allow water ingress into the cabin or under‑body. The anti‑roll‑bar linkage on the nearside should be checked for play; a loose pin or degraded bush will manifest as a metallic knock when cornering or when the suspension is compressed. All exterior lighting must be verified as operational and correctly coloured – replace the plate lamp and rear indicators immediately, as their failure rendered the car unroadworthy at the last test. Given the vehicle’s age, the tyres should be inspected for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or excessive tread wear regardless of tread depth, as rubber can perish after seven years even on low mileage. The 12‑volt battery is likely to be over fifteen years old and should be load‑tested; a weak cell will cause starting issues, especially after periods of storage. Brake discs and pads ought to be examined for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and the calipers checked for sticking – a common symptom of corrosion‑induced brake‑fluid contamination. Finally, all service fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be sampled for colour and level, and a full fluid change schedule should be considered if the last service date is unknown, as time‑based degradation can affect performance and component longevity.