2005 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5L Petrol · WD55 AYC

A clean, advisory-free MOT history on a 2005 Mitsubishi Colt carrying 150,702 miles is an encouraging mechanical signal. The most recent test on 13 March 2023 was passed without a single advisory or defect recorded, and this followed an equally clean pass on 14 January 2022. Two consecutive certificates with zero items flagged indicates the core safety-critical systems tested under the DVSA regime, including the braking system, steering and suspension, lighting and signalling, tyres, and exhaust emissions, were all within prescribed limits at those points. There is no recorded pattern of recurring component wear, corrosion advisories, or persistent minor failures, which is a strong indicator that the chassis and running gear have held up well to date. That said, the 21-year-old platform will still be subject to age-related deterioration that an MOT simply cannot fully predict between tests. The mileage profile of approximately 7,176 miles per year is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and segment, sitting firmly within the normal range for a small Japanese hatchback used as an everyday commuter or second household vehicle. Crucially, there is no evidence in the record of erratic mileage jumps, clocked inconsistencies, or large annual gaps that would suggest the vehicle has been laid up for extended periods or subjected to unusually short-trip usage that can degrade components like the exhaust system, brake discs, or battery. The continuous annual testing history without lapse is also positive, as it indicates the vehicle has remained registered and presumably in regular use, reducing the likelihood of seized calipers, perished rubber components, or moisture-related issues that often develop during long periods of standing. The cumulative 150,702 miles is high in absolute terms, however, so while the usage pattern is steady, the total accumulation should be considered when forecasting future maintenance. Given the clean MOT record, a prospective buyer should still approach the inspection with focus on areas that commonly wear on a Colt of this age and mileage but which may not yet have crossed advisory thresholds. On a test drive, listen carefully for knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, particularly from the lower wishbones, front anti-roll bar drop links, and stabiliser bushings, all known wear points on this platform. Steering should feel precise without excessive play or wandering, and any clonking when turning at low speed can indicate worn strut top mounts or front strut bearings. Pay particular attention to the brake pedal feel, looking for any excessive travel, sponginess, or judder under braking, which could suggest worn front discs or a binding caliper that has not yet been flagged as an MOT failure. Under the bonnet, inspect for any signs of oil misting or weeping around the cam cover gasket, valve cover, and oil filter housing, as well as condition of the coolant hoses and radiator, given that these rubber components will now be well beyond their intended service life. Examine the exhaust system along its full length for rusting joints or hangers, particularly toward the rear silencer where corrosion typically initiates. Check the underside of the vehicle if possible, paying close attention to the rear axle area, subframe mounting points, and brake and fuel lines for any surface corrosion that could become an advisory at the next test. The tyres should be examined for even wear across the tread, as uneven shoulder wear on the front pair could point to worn suspension geometry components or ageing bushes that have stiffened with age. Given the otherwise strong MOT record, the vehicle appears to have been maintained to a satisfactory standard, but these targeted checks will help confirm that the roadworthiness demonstrated at test is being upheld day to day.