2007 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0L Diesel · OU56 KTP

A pattern of recurring suspension wear, brake line corrosion, and steering component deterioration defines the mechanical history of this 2007 Mitsubishi Grandis. The most recent test on 2023-06-30 resulted in a failure, with a Major defect recorded for an excessively worn nearside front suspension component ball joint, alongside advisories covering an oil leak and brake pipe corrosion affecting all four corners. This is not an isolated event; the 2021-01-29 test also failed on Major defects for both nearside and offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, which had previously been flagged with slight play at the 2020-02-11 test, indicating a progressive deterioration that was not addressed before reaching failure threshold. The 2022-02-12 failure added further major concerns, including an inoperative headlamp levelling device, excessive nearside headlamp aim, and an excessively corroded offside rear brake pipe. Across seven recorded tests from 2018 to 2023, only one (2018-02-20) returned with no advisories at all, and the 2023 test carries a Major defect, meaning the overall trend is one of worsening condition rather than stability. Mileage stands at 165,400 miles over a 19-year vehicle life, averaging approximately 8,705 miles per year, which falls broadly within typical expectations for a vehicle of this age. The testing history shows reasonably consistent annual coverage in recent years (2020, 2021 twice, 2022 twice, and 2023), suggesting the vehicle has been in active use rather than laid up for extended periods. However, the higher accumulated mileage combined with the recorded wear patterns on suspension joints, brake pipes, and steering components indicates that consumable and structural service items have been subjected to substantial use. The 2021 advisory noting play in steering rack inner joints, combined with the track rod end play flagged in 2020, points to steering wear that is consistent with this mileage bracket but warrants specific attention during inspection. For a prospective buyer, the brake pipe corrosion flagged at the 2023 test (all four corners) and the corroded offside rear brake pipe that resulted in a Major defect in 2022 are the most pressing structural concerns. Brake lines on a vehicle of this age and mileage are vulnerable to perforation, and a thorough inspection should include raising the vehicle to examine the full length of the underbody brake pipes for surface rust, pitting, or any weeping around joints and flex hose connections. The oil leak advisory, while described as not excessive, should be investigated to identify its source, as prolonged leaks can migrate onto exhaust components or electrical connections. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed bumps and uneven road surfaces, which would indicate worn ball joints or anti-roll bar linkages, and pay close attention to any steering vagueness, knocking through the rack, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle. The 2021 advisory for play in the steering rack inner joints and the 2020 advisory for track rod end ball joint play both warrant physical inspection of the steering geometry, with the vehicle raised to check for any visible movement in these components. Headlamp aim and levelling defects recorded in 2022 should be rechecked, as improperly aimed headlights reduce night-time visibility and may indicate worn adjustment mechanisms or deteriorated mounting. The nearside front suspension component ball joint that failed at the 2023 test must be replaced and the surrounding area inspected for any collateral damage. Tyre condition should be examined closely, as multiple advisories across 2020 and 2021 noted tyres worn close to the legal limit or on the edge, which can be symptomatic of suspension or alignment issues rather than simple wear. Finally, verify the operation of all registration plate lamps and confirm the windscreen damage recorded as a minor defect does not obstruct the driver's view, as these items have appeared more than once in the test record.