2009 Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4L Petrol · RE58 CPX

The Alfa Romeo Mito presents a stable but chronically flagged maintenance profile, most recently passing its MOT on 20 March 2026 at 128,381 miles. The tester noted slight corrosion to the rear brake hose ferrules on both sides and corrosion affecting both rear coil springs. These are not new failures; they are recurring advisories that have persisted across multiple annual tests, indicating a slow-developing pattern of underseal degradation and moisture ingress rather than a sudden mechanical breakdown. The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the repeated nature of these corrosion points suggests the underside has not been thoroughly protected in recent years. At roughly 17 years old with 128,381 miles recorded, the car has covered an average of approximately 7,552 miles per year, which is typical for its age. The mileage progression is consistent and well-documented, with no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps between annual tests. The 2022 test recorded 109,681 miles, rising to 114,309 in 2023, 118,901 in 2024, 124,676 in 2025, and 128,381 in 2026. This steady accumulation of around 4,000 to 5,700 miles per year points to regular use rather than long periods of standing, which makes the persistent corrosion issues more notable given the car has not been sitting idle. The most pressing concern for any prospective buyer is the structural and braking system corrosion that has appeared consistently since at least 2022. Both rear brake hose ferrules have been flagged for slight corrosion in every test from 2022 through 2026, and both rear coil springs have been noted as corroded since 2023. The 2022 test also identified a corroded front-to-rear brake pipe covered in grease or other material, which raises questions about the condition of the entire brake line run. The 2025 test added a worn brake pedal and front tyre wear to the advisory list, while the 2024 test flagged play in the steering rack inner joints. These are not isolated incidents but a pattern of wear and corrosion that demands close physical inspection. A buyer should prioritise a thorough underside inspection, paying particular attention to the rear brake hoses, coil springs, and the full length of the brake pipe system for any signs of pitting, flaking, or active weeping. The handbrake has repeatedly only just met the required effort, so testing its hold on a steep incline is essential. The steering rack inner joint play flagged in 2024 should be checked for any progression, and the condition of the front tyres should be assessed for uneven wear that may indicate alignment or suspension geometry issues. The 2022 note about heavy undersealing may have masked deeper corrosion, so probing any thick underseal coating is advisable before purchase.