2006 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5L Petrol · OV06 WWM

The most recent MOT test for this 2006 Mitsubishi Colt, conducted on 2026-09-01, has not yet been recorded in the provided history, but the preceding tests reveal a pattern of persistent, though not worsening, mechanical advisories. The vehicle passed its last recorded MOT in December 2021 with only minor advisories related to brake disc wear and minor windscreen chips, indicating a stable condition at that stage. However, the earlier failures in 2018 and 2019—particularly the repeated corrosion of rear coil springs and the fractured front coil spring—suggest a gradual but consistent deterioration in suspension integrity. The recurring issues with brake discs also warrant attention, as the consistent but non-major advisories imply ongoing wear that, if left unaddressed, could escalate to more critical levels before the next MOT. The presence of a failed horn and insufficient washer fluid in 2019 further highlights areas requiring immediate attention, though these are not directly linked to roadworthiness failures. The recorded mileage of 166,691 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 20 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,335 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for a Colt, but it does imply significant exposure to wear and tear over time. The absence of particularly high mileage spikes suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme driving conditions or excessive wear from heavy loads, though the consistent corrosion and suspension failures indicate that the car has been driven regularly enough to accelerate component fatigue. The periodic MOT failures and advisories align with this usage profile, reinforcing that the vehicle’s wear is a function of both age and moderate, sustained use rather than isolated incidents. Given the recurring advisories and failures, particularly the corrosion of rear coil springs and the wear on front and rear brake discs, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system. The corroded coil springs, which have been flagged in multiple MOTs, are critical components that, if compromised, can lead to uneven ride quality, excessive suspension travel, and potential binding in the wheel assembly. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles from the rear suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth surfaces, as this may indicate spring failure or bush wear. Inspect the springs visually for further signs of corrosion or deformation, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or binding calipers due to worn suspension components. Additionally, the brake discs show consistent but non-major wear, so verify that the brake pads are not excessively thin and that there is no signs of glazing or excessive heat damage, which could lead to reduced braking performance or shuddering under hard braking. Beyond the suspension and brakes, the buyer should also address the minor but critical failures noted in the MOT history, such as the non-working horn and insufficient washer fluid. The horn should be tested immediately to ensure it meets legal requirements, as a non-functional horn is a major failure that compromises road safety. The washer fluid deficiency should be rectified promptly to prevent windscreen damage during wet conditions. For the brake system, while the discs are not yet at a failing stage, the wear progression should be monitored closely, especially if the vehicle is driven frequently or in hilly terrain. The front bumper damage and windscreen chips, though not roadworthiness issues, should be repaired to maintain the vehicle’s aesthetic integrity and prevent further damage. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is also advisable to check the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre safety over time. Finally, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade with age even without significant mileage. The 12V battery should also be tested for health, particularly if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods, as standing corrosion and battery failure are common issues in older vehicles.