2006 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6L Petrol · MJ55 XRM

The latest MOT test result for this 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer, conducted on 2026-07-01, shows a passing outcome with two advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years is mixed but leans towards a pattern of recurring issues rather than consistent stability. While the vehicle passed in 2024 and 2025, the failures in 2021 and 2022—particularly the dangerous front engine mount fracture and excessive play in the front track rod end—highlight significant structural and mechanical wear that has not been fully addressed. The recent advisories, such as the nearside front tyre wear and rear sub-frame corrosion, suggest ongoing degradation that demands proactive intervention to prevent escalation into major defects. The recorded mileage of 155,195 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 20 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,760 miles, which is typical for its age but not exceptionally low. Lower mileage might indicate periods of disuse or lighter operation, potentially leading to issues like standing corrosion or fluid degradation, whereas higher mileage could accelerate wear on suspension components, brakes, and drivetrain elements. The absence of recent, rapid mileage accumulation does not preclude underlying wear, especially given the history of critical failures like the engine mount fracture, which often correlates with prolonged stress cycles. The vehicle’s usage profile does not suggest an immediate cause for alarm, but the combination of age and recorded defects demands a thorough inspection to mitigate potential future failures. Given the recent MOT advisories and historical failures, the prospective buyer should commence with a comprehensive mechanical inspection focusing on the front suspension and drivetrain. The nearside front tyre wear close to the legal limit indicates uneven loading, which could stem from misaligned suspension components or binding calipers. Listen for clunking noises from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may suggest camber or toe issues. The front track rod end ball joint failure in 2022, along with the lack of a dust cover on the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, necessitates immediate replacement of these components to prevent premature wear on steering and suspension linkages. Additionally, the rear sub-frame corrosion, while not deemed seriously weakened, should be monitored closely, as rust can compromise structural integrity over time. Inspect the rear tyres for signs of excessive cupping or uneven wear, which may indicate suspension or alignment problems, and verify that the rear tyres are not perishing or cracked, as seen in the 2021 advisory. For fluid systems and general maintenance, the buyer should prioritise checking the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant for signs of degradation or contamination, particularly given the vehicle’s age. Engine oil should be fresh and within the correct viscosity, with no metallic or carbon deposits, as the fractured engine mount suggests past or ongoing internal stress. Brake fluid should be clear and free of moisture, and the brake discs should be inspected for corrosion, binding, or excessive glazing, especially on the nearside where corrosion is more likely due to standing. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are prone to failing from prolonged disuse or high internal resistance. Finally, the vehicle’s service history should be verified for scheduled maintenance such as valve adjustments, spark plug replacements, and suspension bush replacements, which are critical for longevity. If the service book is incomplete, consider a full mechanical inspection to address any missed intervals, particularly around the suspension and drivetrain components that have historically failed.