1960 MG Roadster 1.6L Petrol · PSU 360

The most recent MOT test on the 1960 MG Roadster was conducted on 2025-06-30 and resulted in a clean pass, with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly related to the steering system and rear braking components. The 2024-06-11 MOT failure highlighted a major failure of the offside rear position lamp, which is a safety-critical fault that must be rectified immediately, alongside a major imbalance in the rear brakes across axle 2—a condition that suggests uneven wear or mechanical misalignment, often caused by binding calipers, warped discs, or improper brake lining adjustment. Additionally, the near-side front brake binding and the persistent advisory of slight play in the steering rack inner joints indicate progressive wear in both the hydraulic and mechanical steering components. These recurring problems suggest that the vehicle has either been neglected in critical areas or has inherent structural or component degradation that requires prompt attention to prevent further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 15,580 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 66 years represents an exceptionally low annual usage rate of around 236 miles per year, which is far below the norm for a car of this era and condition. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged standing, particularly in climates prone to corrosion, or limited operational use, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion on the chassis, brake disc binding from moisture absorption, and fluid degradation from stagnation. The absence of significant wear on consumables such as tyres, fluids, or drivetrain components may be misleading, as the vehicle’s lack of use could have allowed minor issues to develop undetected or worsened over time. For example, the steering system’s advisory of play in the inner joints and the damaged gaiter suggest that the steering rack may have been subjected to prolonged stress from idling or minor misalignment, leading to accelerated wear. Given the MOT history’s recurring steering and braking faults, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the steering system during a test drive. Listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the steering column, particularly when turning at low speeds, which may indicate worn or failing inner joints or bushings. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel, which could confirm the advisory of play in the steering rack. Additionally, inspect the front brakes for binding, which may manifest as a spongy or uneven pedal feel or a grinding noise when applying the brakes. The rear brakes should be examined for uneven wear patterns or signs of warping, which could explain the previous MOT failure. If binding is confirmed, the calipers may need adjustment or replacement, and the discs should be checked for corrosion or binding, which could be exacerbated by prolonged standing. For the MG Roadster’s age and low mileage profile, the buyer should also focus on age-related checks that are often overlooked in lightly used vehicles. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal use if the rubber has been exposed to UV light and environmental degradation over decades. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals and ensure it holds a charge when tested, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power, especially in cold conditions. The suspension components, including coil springs and shock absorbers, should be examined for signs of wear or failure, such as sagging springs or excessive bounce during a test drive. Fluid levels, particularly the brake fluid, should be checked for contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can absorb moisture and reduce braking effectiveness. Finally, the vehicle’s exhaust emissions system should be inspected for leaks or blockages, which could lead to poor performance or further MOT failures. Given the history of steering and braking issues, it is advisable to have a qualified mechanic perform a detailed inspection of these systems before proceeding with purchase.