1997 Mitsubishi L200 2.5L Diesel · R634 FSG

A persistent theme of corrosion and progressive wear on the propshaft centre bearing underpins the mechanical story of this 1997 Mitsubishi L200; the latest MOT on 4 November 2014 recorded a pass but highlighted that the bearing support rubber is perished and torn, echoing identical advisories from 2012, 2013 and 2014. Earlier failures repeatedly cited missing rear reflectors, faulty rear lamps and significant body‑panel corrosion, including a sharp edge on the off‑side body and heavily corroded seat‑belt anchorage, indicating that rust has been a recurring issue rather than an isolated incident. With 119 858 mi recorded over roughly 29 years the vehicle averages about 4 130 mi per annum, a mileage rate well below typical usage for a work‑type van of this age. The low annual accumulation suggests periods of light duty or extended storage, which can exacerbate rust formation on exposed steelwork and rubber components while placing little stress on drivetrain wear. Consequently, age‑related degradation—particularly corrosion of the body, wheel arches and exhaust sections—remains a more relevant risk than mileage‑related wear on consumables. Prospective buyers should give the propshaft centre bearing rubber immediate attention: listen for a pronounced clunk or vibration when accelerating from a standstill, and inspect for oil seepage around the bearing housing. The documented corrosion on the off‑side wheel‑arch skin, rear tail‑pipe and seat‑belt anchorage area should be examined for any thinning metal, flaking paint or sharp edges that could compromise structural integrity; any rust‑induced weakness in the anchorage could affect occupant safety. Verify that the previously missing nearside and off‑side rear reflectors and the off‑side stop lamp have been correctly replaced and that the lamps illuminate steadily, as lighting failures were a recurring cause of earlier rejections. Brake performance warrants a focused test drive: the 2011 failure noted severe off‑side rear brake grabbing, and a 2013 advisory mentioned the nearside rear brake engaging slightly quicker than the off‑side, so assess for uneven pedal feel, judder or pulling under braking. Inspect the condition of the wiper blades and washer system, given multiple past failures of windscreen wipers and washer fluid delivery, and confirm that the seat‑belt anchorage corrosion has been remedied to a safe standard. Finally, evaluate the exhaust’s mid‑ and rear‑section corrosion for potential leaks or weakened mounting points, and ensure that any repaired body panels have been properly treated to prevent future rust propagation.