1997 Jeep Wrangler 4.0L Petrol · M40 TOD

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile, though the record suggests a history of intermittent maintenance. The most recent test in June 2022 at 112,459 miles resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating the vehicle met minimum standards at that time. However, the pattern of failing in both 2021 and 2022 just days before passing suggests the vehicle may have suffered from minor presentation issues or consumable failures that required immediate attention to satisfy the retest requirements. The mileage figures are exceptionally low for a 29-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,878 miles per year. Between October 2019 and June 2022, the Jeep covered only 811 miles, moving from 111,648 to 112,459 miles. This stagnant usage indicates long periods of storage or very light seasonal use. While this reduces wear on the drivetrain, it often leads to the degradation of rubber components, seals, and brake systems due to lack of movement and corrosion rather than mileage alone. A buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the chassis and frame members, as the age of the vehicle makes it susceptible to significant rust. Given the low mileage and likely inactivity, the suspension bushes, coil springs, and hydraulic hoses should be checked for cracking or perished. The braking system also requires scrutiny for seized calipers or rusted discs, as stationary vehicles frequently develop internal corrosion that a standard MOT may not fully capture until a failure occurs.