1996 Rover 800 2.0L Petrol · P971 RHW

Most recent MOT (28 April 2026 – PASS) The car passed the test, but the examiner recorded a long list of advisories. The front windscreen is damaged, the front brake discs are worn and pitted, the central exhaust leaks a little, the underside shows corrosion, the front anti‑roll bar bush is worn, both front shock absorbers have light oil misting, the rear off‑side tyre is a ten‑year‑old tyre with cracking, and the power‑steering pump is leaking. None of these items caused a failure, but they highlight a vehicle that is approaching the end of its serviceable life. Recurring pattern and trend Across the last twelve‑month MOT history the same groups of faults keep re‑appearing: Braking – Front discs have been flagged at every test (2024‑2026). They are described as “worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened”. While not yet unsafe, the discs are close to the end of their useful life and will need replacement soon. Steering and suspension – Since mid‑2025 the car has shown serious steering‑rack movement, missing steering lock device, and a MacPherson strut that is “likely to become detached”. The power‑steering rack has been leaking, and the anti‑roll bar bush is worn. These are safety‑critical components and indicate a deteriorating front‑end geometry. Exhaust and emissions – A minor exhaust leak is present at every test, and on three occasions (2025‑06, 2025‑07, 2026‑04) the carbon‑monoxide test exceeded limits.