1975 Ford Granada 3.0L Petrol · OKM 902P

The most recent DVSA MOT on the 1975 Ford Granada was recorded on 27 October 2005 and it passed with no defects noted. With only a single MOT entry spanning more than two decades, there is insufficient data to identify a clear trend in the vehicle’s maintenance history; however, the absence of recorded failures at that time suggests the car was in a satisfactory condition then. The lack of subsequent MOT records means the current state of wear and service compliance cannot be inferred from the official history and must be verified through a thorough physical inspection. At 60 100 miles the Granada averages roughly 1 180 miles per year, an exceptionally low annual usage for a vehicle of its vintage. Such limited mileage often indicates periods of prolonged storage or very light daily use, which can be a double‑edged sword: while mechanical wear on engine, transmission and drivetrain components may be modest, components that rely on regular movement—such as suspension bushings, rubber seals, brake linings and tyre rubber—can deteriorate from age rather than mileage. Any long gaps in use, especially if the car has been stationary for years, increase the risk of corrosion on chassis members, rust on wheel arches, and the development of dry rotted bushes or seized brake calipers. For a prospective buyer the first visual checks should concentrate on the condition of the tyres; even if tread depth appears adequate, sidewall cracking, hardening or perishing is common on tyres that have sat for decades and can lead to sudden failure. Examine the wheel rims for corrosion and ensure the wheel bearings turn freely without grinding. Inspect the body and under‑carriage for rust, paying particular attention to the sills, floor pans and suspension mounting points, as concealed corrosion can compromise structural integrity. The 12 V battery, if original, will almost certainly be beyond its service life and should be tested for cranking amperage or replaced outright. Mechanical inspection should include a full assessment of the suspension: check for play in the front ball joints, condition of the rubber bushings and any signs of oil leakage from the shock absorbers or coil‑spring mounts. On the brakes, look for rusted discs, uneven pad wear and verify that the calipers move freely without binding; a car that has been idle may develop seized pistons which manifest as a shudder or uneven braking feel. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—are topped up and free from contamination; fluids degrade with time and should be flushed and replaced if the car has not undergone a calendar‑based service in many years. A comprehensive test drive listening for clunks, vibrations, exhaust leaks or irregular engine idling will help reveal any hidden deficiencies before committing to purchase.