1998 Reliant Rialto 0.8L Petrol · S396 TNB

A pattern of recent mechanical attention is evident following a period of recorded advisories in early 2024, though the vehicle has since returned to a clean status. The March 2024 inspection flagged several issues involving the steering and suspension, alongside tyre degradation, which resulted in a failure before a subsequent pass. However, the two most recent tests on 07 February 2025 and 10 February 2026 show no defects or advisories, indicating that the previously noted steering play and shock absorber misting have likely been addressed or have not progressed to a point of failure. The vehicle exhibits a low-use profile, having covered approximately 70,348 miles over its 28-year lifespan. This averages to roughly 2,512 miles per year, which is significantly lower than the standard annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. While this low accumulation suggests minimal wear on the drivetrain and engine components, the three-year gap in testing between October 2021 and March 2024 warrants scrutiny. Such periods of inactivity can lead to the degradation of rubber components, such as tyres and bushes, which is consistent with the cracking and perishing of tyres noted in the 2024 records. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle during a test drive to ensure the steering box issues from 2024 have been fully rectified. Listen for any irregular clunking or knocking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds, which could indicate persistent play in the sector shaft or drop arm. Additionally, monitor the front shock absorbers for any signs of renewed oil misting; any visible dampness on the shock absorber body would suggest the seals are failing again. The history of perishing tyres suggests that rubber components may be subject to age-related degradation rather than tread wear. During the inspection, examine the sidewalls of all tyres for fine cracks or signs of weathering, and check the condition of any visible suspension bushes or steering linkages. On the road, feel for any wandering or a lack of precision in the steering, which would be a direct indicator of continued play within the steering box or worn steering components.