2010 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8L Diesel · WM10 AOY

A pattern of progressive structural corrosion is the defining mechanical concern on this Mitsubishi ASX, evidenced by recurring advisories on both the front and rear subframes at successive MOT tests alongside corroded brake pipes and a corroded front suspension arm. The 2024-02-29 failed test marked a significant deterioration, with three Major defects recorded: a nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint exhibiting excessive wear, a non-functioning nearside front position lamp, and an offside rear shock absorber with a serious fluid leak. The car subsequently passed at the 2024-03-08 retest, but the subframe advisories persisted, and the absence of any fresh defects on that pass does not undo the underlying mechanical decline. Earlier tests showed a relatively clean record in 2022, with no defects at all, and 2023-03-09 introduced the first wave of advisories before the 2024 failures escalated the situation. The overall trajectory is one of worsening condition, particularly for underbody components exposed to corrosion. Mileage accumulation has been broadly typical for the vehicle's age, with 115,276 miles recorded over approximately 16 years, equating to around 7,205 miles annually. Testing intervals between 2022 and 2024 show roughly 12,000 miles covered across two years, which is consistent with regular mixed-use driving rather than long-term storage or unusually high wear. No extended gaps in the testing record are present that would suggest the vehicle was laid up for consecutive years. This usage profile indicates normal mechanical wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, without the elevated wear rates typical of high-mileage vehicles or the drying-out and degradation risks seen on cars left stationary for prolonged periods. The mileage history itself does not raise concerns beyond the standard expectations for a vehicle of this age and weight class. A close physical inspection of the underbody is essential before purchase, with particular attention to the subframes at both ends, the brake pipes running along the chassis, and the front suspension arms. Subframe corrosion that has been recorded as advisory twice in twelve months can advance quickly, particularly in areas where road salt accumulates during winter months, so a thorough check on a ramp is highly advisable to confirm that the corrosion has not progressed beyond the advisory threshold. The brake pipes flagged as corroded in 2023 should be examined for any signs of surface rust bleeding through the protective grease coating, and any flaking or pitting would warrant replacement. On a test drive, listen carefully for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over bumps and speed humps, particularly from the nearside where the anti-roll bar ball joint was previously failed; feeling for vagueness or imprecise steering response can help reveal play in the linkage. The offside rear shock absorber that previously leaked should be checked by pressing down firmly on each rear corner and observing whether the body settles and rebounds smoothly without bouncing, as residual hydraulic fluid loss often leads to premature damping failure. A persistent smell of exhaust gases inside the cabin, or audible ticking from underneath, could indicate that the previously noted rear exhaust leak has progressed at the joints or flexi section. The front position lamp failure recorded in early 2024 is a relatively trivial electrical issue typically resolved by replacing the bulb or checking the connector, but it is worth confirming both front marker lamps illuminate correctly. Given the documented subframe and brake pipe corrosion, obtaining a current underbody inspection report from a specialist rather than relying solely on a generalist inspection would be the prudent course of action before committing to purchase.