1996 Rover 620 2.0L Petrol · M1 GGM

The current roadworthiness status of this Rover 620 is concerning due to the most recent test outcome. On 15 November 2024, the vehicle failed its MOT, and the lack of specific defect data in the record prevents a clear assessment of the underlying mechanical state. Given that the vehicle passed cleanly in March 2023, the sudden failure suggests a decline in maintenance standards or the onset of a significant mechanical issue that remains unresolved nearly nine months later. The recorded mileage of 123,284 over thirty years averages to approximately 4,109 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this vintage. While this suggests the car has not been subjected to heavy commercial use, the lack of consistent mileage accumulation between tests indicates potential periods of prolonged inactivity. Long-term storage often leads to fuel degradation, seized brake components, and the drying out of rubber seals or hoses, which may not be immediately apparent in a clean MOT pass but can manifest as sudden failures. Prospective buyers must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and subframes for structural corrosion, as this is a common failure point for Rover models of this era. You should specifically check the condition of the brake lines and suspension bushes, as these components frequently deteriorate during periods of disuse. Since the MOT history is devoid of specific advisories, do not assume the vehicle is in excellent condition. Verify the state of the cooling system and check for any signs of oil leaks around the engine block, as the absence of recorded defects in the history may simply reflect a lack of rigorous testing rather than a lack of mechanical wear.