2013 Alfa Romeo Mito 0.9L Petrol · OU13 NPO

The Alfa Romeo Mito’s most recent MOT test on 2026-05-22 passed, but the preceding failure on 2026-05-12 reveals a concerning trend of unresolved mechanical issues. The vehicle’s roadworthiness has not improved since the last test, with critical faults—excessive steering rack free play, severely worn suspension bushes, and imbalanced rear brakes—remaining unaddressed despite a retest just ten days later. The 2025 and 2024 records further expose a pattern of neglect: corroded brake pipes, missing wheel fixings, and structural corrosion in the sub-frame were either ignored or inadequately repaired. The 2024 failure for a missing rear wheel nut alone suggests basic maintenance was overlooked, while the repeated brake and steering issues indicate deeper mechanical concerns that have not been systematically addressed. The recorded mileage of 64,293 miles at the latest test reflects an unusually low annual average of approximately 4,900 miles over its 13-year lifespan, which may imply prolonged periods of inactivity. Between the 2024 and 2025 tests, the vehicle accumulated only 1,705 miles in a year, a gap that could exacerbate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components. The absence of intermediate maintenance records—such as service intervals or brake pad replacements—further raises suspicion that the vehicle was either stored or driven sporadically, allowing corrosion and bush degradation to progress unchecked. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the steering rack, which exhibited excessive free play in the 2026 failure, as this directly impacts handling and safety. The suspension bushes, flagged as excessively worn in 2026, should be visually inspected for cracks or deformation, with particular attention to the front lower arms. Brake discs and pads show a history of pitting and uneven wear, suggesting potential binding calipers or warped rotors—these should be measured for thickness and checked for lateral run-out. Structural integrity is also a concern; the 2025 record noted front sub-frame corrosion, and the absence of subsequent repairs warrants a thorough examination of wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels for hidden rust penetration. The handbrake’s marginal condition in 2024 warrants verification of cable tension and drum/pad wear.