1996 Ford Probe 2.0L Petrol · P996 DCH

A suite of brake and steering deficiencies recorded in late 2006 reveals the vehicle required significant remedial work to meet safety standards; the off‑side rear parking brake offered little effort, service‑brake efficiency fell below the required level, the steering lock device was missing and the off‑side headlamp aim was excessive. Those faults were rectified before the subsequent MOT on 30 November 2006, when the car passed with no further defects noted, and no additional failures appear in the available history. At 115,411 mi the car averages roughly 3,800 mi per year over its thirty‑year lifespan, a mileage figure that is low for its age and suggests either light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The MOT record shows a three‑year testing window (2005‑2006) with a six‑month gap between a pass and a failure, after which no further tests are listed, indicating the vehicle may have been off the road for an extended period or simply not re‑tested. Low annual accumulation reduces wear on consumables but can allow rubber components, bushings and seals to dry out, and long storage can encourage corrosion in chassis and brake assemblies. When evaluating the brake system, verify that the service pedal builds firm pressure without a spongy feel and that the pedal does not dip excessively under moderate braking. Test the parking brake by applying it firmly while the vehicle is stationary; it should hold the car on a slight incline without slipping. Listen for any grinding or squealing from the discs and inspect the calipers for uneven wear or fluid leakage, as the 2006 failure highlighted efficiency shortfalls that could stem from worn pads, warped rotors or compromised hydraulic lines. A thorough visual inspection of brake hoses for cracks or corrosion is also advisable given the vehicle’s age. The steering lock device must engage and release smoothly; a missing or faulty lock can compromise security and may indicate broader steering‑column wear. Check the off‑side headlamp aim by observing the beam pattern on a wall at a short distance – it should be centred and not project excessively high. While on a test drive, feel for any steering pull to one side, binding at low speeds, or clunking over bumps, which could point to worn steering rack bushings or subframe corrosion. Finally, examine suspension components such as ball joints, control‑arm bushes and shock absorbers for play, leakage or rust, as low mileage does not preclude degradation of these parts over three decades.