2005 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6L Petrol · PX55 SFO

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2026-01-14 at 78,907 miles recorded a pass with no defects, but a prior test on 2026-01-05 at the same mileage failed without recorded defects. This inconsistency suggests potential administrative errors or unresolved minor issues. Subsequent tests from 2024-12-20 (77,914 miles) and 2018-07-09 (77,832 miles) showed no defects, indicating a stable maintenance trend in earlier years. However, the recent failure without explanation raises questions about the vehicle’s compliance status. The recorded mileage of 78,907 miles over 21 years equates to an average of 3,757 miles annually, significantly lower than typical usage. Notable gaps exist between tests: the 2018-07-09 MOT was followed by no records until 2024-12-20, a gap of nearly six years. This prolonged inactivity could contribute to component degradation, such as dry rot in rubber seals or corrosion in underbody areas. The minimal mileage increase in recent years (993 miles from 2024 to 2026) further implies infrequent use, which may mask wear in systems reliant on regular operation. A buyer should physically inspect for signs of long-term storage, including battery condition, fluid freshness, and suspension bushings for cracking. The absence of recorded defects does not preclude hidden issues from inactivity, such as seized calipers or degraded brake discs. Structural integrity and exhaust emissions should also be verified, as low-mileage vehicles may develop corrosion in seams or joints. The lack of advisories in the MOT history is reassuring but does not eliminate the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection.