2004 Lotus Exige 1.8L Petrol · V8 DRK

The vehicle presents a stable maintenance profile with an improving trend in recent years. The most recent MOT test on 28 November 2025 at 85,446 miles passed with no defects recorded, mirroring the clean result from the 28 November 2024 test at 82,878 miles. This follows a period of mechanical volatility between 2015 and 2023 where the car faced various issues involving braking systems, exhaust emissions, and suspension components. The absence of advisories in the last two years suggests that previous mechanical concerns have been effectively addressed. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a low-use vehicle, averaging approximately 3,884 miles per year over its 22-year lifespan. The record shows steady, incremental increases in mileage, such as the 3,573-mile rise between the November 2024 and November 2025 tests. There are no significant gaps in testing or evidence of long-term abandonment, though the low annual usage means certain components may be subject to age-related degradation rather than wear from high mileage. A prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking system and chassis. Although the 2023 test at 81,041 miles flagged fluctuating nearside front service brakes, pitted discs, and thinning pads, the subsequent clean tests imply these were replaced. However, the history shows a recurring pattern of brake pipe corrosion, specifically the significant failure in November 2018 due to excessive corrosion on both nearside and offside pipes. Given the 2017 advisory regarding rear brake pipe corrosion, a manual check of all fluid lines for surface rust or weeping is necessary. Suspension and exhaust components also warrant attention. The 2023 record noted light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorbers and a worn offside rear suspension bush, while the 2021 and 2022 tests flagged a noisy exhaust. While these issues appear resolved in the most recent entries, the age of the vehicle makes it prudent to inspect the integrity of all rubber bushes, track rod end covers, and the exhaust mounting system to ensure no new degradation has occurred during periods of lower usage.