2023 MG ZS SE EV Electric · RO23 TWN

The MG ZS SE EV most recently presented for MOT testing on 27 March 2026 and was issued a Pass, which is the desired outcome; however, the underlying history is not without concern, as the same vehicle failed just two days prior on 25 March 2026. The reason for that failure was a Major defect recorded against the offside rear coil spring, classified as fractured or broken under section 5.3.1 (b) (i) of the MOT inspection manual. A fractured coil spring is a significant structural and safety-related finding, as it compromises the vehicle's ride height, suspension geometry, and load-bearing capacity, and the close proximity of the failure and subsequent pass strongly suggests the component was replaced before the retest. No further advisories or defects appear on the record, and there is only a secondary advisory regarding a child seat fitted in the nearside rear obstructing full inspection of the adult belt, which is an observational note rather than a mechanical fault. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable post-repair, but the coil spring failure at just three years old is worth further scrutiny to determine whether it was an isolated manufacturing defect or indicative of broader suspension wear. With regard to recorded mileage, the vehicle is approximately three years old and has covered 61,822 miles, equating to an annual average of roughly 20,607 miles per year. This is substantially higher than the typical usage profile for a privately owned vehicle of this age, which is usually in the region of 7,000 to 10,000 miles annually, and places this MG into the upper bracket of high-mileage examples. Such elevated annual usage accelerates wear on all consumable and mechanical items, particularly tyres, brake components, suspension bushes, steering components, and wheel bearings. Conversely, the continuous use implied by this mileage is generally beneficial for an electric vehicle in terms of battery conditioning, as lithium-ion traction batteries suffer less degradation through regular cycling than through prolonged periods of standing unused. There are no significant gaps or inconsistencies in the recorded mileages visible to indicate clocked or irregular usage, and the MOT history does not flag any mileage-related advisories, which lends credibility to the odometer reading. Given the recent Major defect on the offside rear coil spring, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the nearside rear coil spring as a matter of priority, as a failure on one side at this low age can indicate that the opposite spring is approaching similar fatigue, particularly if the vehicle has regularly carried heavy loads or encountered poor road surfaces. During a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, and observe whether the vehicle sits level at the rear when parked on flat ground, as a settled or sagging rear end may suggest a weakened or fractured nearside spring. It is also prudent to ask for documentary evidence of the spring replacement carried out between the failure and pass dates, including the invoice, part used, and any associated components such as suspension strut mounts or top mounts that may have been disturbed during the repair. Uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, particularly excessive inner or outer shoulder wear, can also be indicative of compromised suspension geometry following a fractured spring. Beyond the suspension-specific concerns, the high annual mileage demands particular attention to other wear-sensitive items regardless of MOT-recorded advisories. Inspect the tyres closely for tread depth and, more importantly given the age-versus-mileage balance, check the sidewalls for any cracking, perishing, or bulging, as high-mileage EV use can generate more sidewall flex through torque application. Examine the brake discs for lipping and the calipers for signs of binding, and verify the condition of the brake fluid, which has a typical service life of two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. For the electrical drivetrain, request evidence of any diagnostic scans showing State of Health of the traction battery, as high-mileage EVs can experience accelerated degradation, and confirm that the 12V auxiliary battery has been replaced or tested, as these typically require renewal every four to five years. Finally, verify the presence of a full main dealer or specialist service history stamped in line with MG's recommended intervals, as consistent servicing on a high-mileage vehicle is the strongest indicator of long-term mechanical reliability.