2003 Rover 45 1.6L Petrol · PE53 EEP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding neglected corrosion-related components. While it passed its latest test in October 2025 at 108,876 miles, it had failed just eight days prior due to an exhaust leak affecting emissions. The persistent presence of corrosion on both front and rear coil springs across three consecutive years since 2023 indicates that the owner has deferred preventative repairs on the suspension's structural integrity despite repeated advisories. At 23 years old, this de-facto Rover 45 has covered a low average of approximately 4,700 miles per year. The data shows a very consistent usage pattern, with roughly 3,000 to 5,000 miles covered between annual tests from 2022 to 2025. This low mileage suggests limited mechanical wear on the drivetrain and engine, but the age of the vehicle means it may have spent long periods stationary, which often leads to the accelerated degradation of rubber components and metal surfaces as seen in the recorded faults. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and exhaust system. The corroded coil springs have been a flagged risk since 2023, and the buyer should check for deep scaling rust that could lead to a structural failure. The offside front drive shaft CV boot noted in 2024 requires a re-examination to ensure no grease leakage has occurred since the last report. Furthermore, the pitted front brake discs noted in 2023 and the recent exhaust leak in 2025 suggest that while the car is functional, the consumables and auxiliary components are reaching the end of their effective life due to age and environmental exposure.