2004 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5L Petrol · RL04 JYJ

This Mitsubishi Colt’s most recent MOT, conducted just four months ago on 25 March 2026 at 80,275 miles, passed without any defects, indicating a stable roadworthiness status at the time of testing. However, the record reveals a history of recurring and critical failures that suggest inconsistent maintenance. The offside front wheel bearing failure in April 2025—just two miles before passing—demonstrates a serious mechanical flaw that was not addressed before the subsequent test. Similarly, the steering rack gaiter failures and inadequate parking brake efficiency in March 2024 highlight longstanding neglect of critical components. While the vehicle has passed its last two tests, the pattern of unresolved structural issues—particularly in wheel bearings and steering systems—warries closer scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 80,275 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 3,650 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs—nearly 13 months—suggests the car may have been stored or driven infrequently during that period. The sudden accumulation of 8,000 miles between the 2024 and 2025 tests, followed by another 2,000 miles before the 2025 failure, indicates sporadic use rather than consistent, high-mileage operation. This low mileage could imply deferred maintenance, as critical components like wheel bearings and steering systems were allowed to degrade without regular inspection. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the wheel bearings, particularly the offside front unit, which failed catastrophically in 2025. The steering rack gaiters were repeatedly compromised, suggesting contamination or wear—this should be checked for leaks, corrosion, or internal damage. The parking brake’s efficiency, which was below 50% in 2024, must be verified as functional, as this could indicate worn cables, drums, or master cylinder issues. Suspension components, including bushes and coil springs, should be examined for excessive wear or corrosion, given the vehicle’s age. Finally, the exhaust system and underbody should be inspected for rust, as corrosion often accelerates in low-mileage, stored vehicles. The absence of defects in recent tests does not negate the need for thorough mechanical verification.