2012 Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Petrol · PA51 ROM

The 2012 Chevrolet Spark passed its most recent MOT on January 6 2026 at 57,245 miles, but the record reveals concerning trends regarding structural integrity and fluid leaks. The tester identified corrosion on both rear brake pipes covered in grease, alongside corrosion on both the nearside and offside rear lower sills. While the vehicle passed the test, the presence of rust on the structural sills suggests an ongoing process of degradation that may accelerate if not properly treated. The use of grease to cover brake pipes often indicates an attempt to mask corrosion during inspection, which complicates a thorough assessment of the metal lines. At 57,245 miles over 14 years, the vehicle has covered an average of approximately 4,000 miles per year. This low usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components and brake seals rather than mechanical wear from distance. This is evidenced by the January 2025 test at 54,201 miles, where the car failed due to imbalanced rear brakes, binding rear calipers, and a worn nearside rear tyre. Although the binding issues were resolved for the 2026 test, the recurring appearance of an excessive oil leak and the insecure battery mounting suggests that maintenance has been reactive, addressing MOT failures rather than performing preventative care. A buyer should prioritize a detailed physical inspection of the lower sills to determine if the corrosion is surface-level or structural. The reported oil leak requires investigation to ensure it is not originating from a failing head gasket or crankcase seal. While the electrical faults related to the offside stop lamp and position lamp were rectified last year, the electrical system should be verified for consistent operation. Given the low mileage, the structural rust on the chassis and brake lines represents the most significant long-term roadworthiness risk for this vehicle.