2004 Mitsubishi L200 Double CAB 2.5L Diesel · T14 GGA

The most recent MOT recorded on 21 June 2016 was a pass, but it carried an advisory indicating slight play in the nearside front wheel bearing. Over the preceding decade the vehicle has shown a mixed picture: early 2012 and 2013 tests revealed excessive corrosion of brake pipework and anti‑roll bar linkages, while 2014 produced a failure for front anti‑roll bar bush wear and headlamp aim, and 2016 added significant chassis corrosion at both front corners. Although the last test was a pass, the pattern suggests that corrosion and suspension bush wear have been recurring issues, with only intermittent remediation evident; the trend is therefore more of a gradual deterioration rather than a clear improvement. At 139 324 mi the L200 averages roughly 6 300 mi per year, which sits squarely within the normal usage envelope for a 22‑year‑old light commercial vehicle. The mileage does not indicate any period of intensive short‑term running that would accelerate wear on high‑stress components, but the relatively low annual distance also hints that the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary. Prolonged inactivity can promote tyre sidewall perishing, battery sulphation, and the kind of surface corrosion that has already been flagged on the chassis and brake lines. A prospective buyer should give the front chassis sections a thorough visual and tactile inspection, probing for rust that has progressed beyond surface bluing, especially within 30 cm of the mounting points where the 2016 failure was recorded. Any deep pitting or flaking will compromise structural integrity and may require panel replacement or professional reinforcement. The anti‑roll bar bushings and pins should be checked for excessive play by applying firm pressure to the bar while the wheel is held steady; noticeable clunking or a loose feel when cornering would confirm the earlier failures. Likewise, the front wheel bearings must be examined for roughness or grinding when the wheel is spun by hand, and a test‑drive should be used to listen for humming or growling that intensifies with speed, which would indicate bearing wear that has progressed since the 2016 advisory. Tyre tread depth should be measured on all four corners; the MOT advisories from 2013‑2014 noted front tyres close to the legal limit, so any remaining tread below 3 mm will need replacement. Inspect the brake pipework for surface rust and, if possible, have a mechanic pressure‑test the lines for leaks, as the vehicle has a history of both slight and excessive corrosion. The minor exhaust leak noted in 2012 should be re‑checked for any new cracks or perforations that could affect emissions and fuel efficiency. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of storage, verify the condition of the 12 V battery (load test), examine all fluid levels and colours (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid) and ensure that any time‑based service intervals—such as timing belt or chain replacement—have been observed in the service book. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of whether the L200 remains mechanically sound or is heading toward costly remedial work.