2008 Mitsubishi Colt 1.1L Petrol · WM08 EZL

The 2008 Mitsubishi Colt presents a mixed roadworthiness picture with a maintenance trend that shows recurring electrical and safety issues despite recent passes. In the November 12, 2025 test at 67,078 miles, the vehicle initially failed on an SRS airbag warning lamp, an insecure battery, and incorrectly aimed headlamps before passing later that same day once rectified. This follows a remarkably similar failure pattern from November 18, 2024, where the car also failed on the exact same SRS warning lamp alongside a defective wiper blade, before passing the following day. The persistence of the SRS fault across consecutive years indicates an intermittent or unresolved electrical circuit issue within the supplementary restraint system that warrants professional diagnostic investigation. The recorded mileage stands at 67,078 miles, which averages out to roughly 3,727 miles per year over its 18-year lifespan. This low overall mileage points toward light town use or extended periods of inactivity, a pattern further evidenced by the sparse historical data available in the provided record. The lengthy gaps between test sessions and the clean pass recorded on November 19, 2024, suggest the vehicle has spent considerable time off the road or received sporadic attention from previous keepers. Low usage patterns like this frequently mask underlying issues with battery degradation and component seizure, which aligns directly with the battery security failure noted in the 2025 test. A physical inspection of the vehicle must prioritize several specific mechanical and structural points highlighted in the recent advisory notices. The tester noted an oil leak that requires investigation to determine if it stems from the rocker cover gasket, sump, or crankshaft seals. Brake inspection is critical given the advisory for thin front brake pads and an offside front brake pipe that is both corroded and obscured by grease. Buyers should also check the chassis and suspension mounting points for corrosion, verify the headlight units for the poor lens condition noted in 2023, and inspect the loose rear exhaust heat shield to ensure all fixings remain secure.