2013 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L Petrol · WM62 BTO

The latest MOT test on the 2013 Mitsubishi Mirage recorded a passing result with several advisories and minor issues, though no dangerous failures were noted. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years appears to be stable, with no repeated dangerous failures and only minor recurring problems such as registration plate lamp inoperability and front tyre wear close to legal limits. The advisories regarding brake binding, structural corrosion in the inner sills, and worn brake components suggest that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, there are areas requiring attention to prevent potential future issues. The consistency of passing tests despite these advisories indicates that the vehicle has been maintained adequately, though proactive checks will be essential to address the identified wear and corrosion risks before they escalate. The recorded mileage of 107,269 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years reflects a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,251 miles per year, which is reasonable for its age and class. This level of mileage does not indicate excessive wear beyond typical expectations for a car of this vintage, though it does imply that the vehicle has undergone sustained operational use rather than being kept in a static condition. However, the presence of multiple advisories related to front brake components and tyre wear—particularly the exposure of tyre cords in 2024—suggests that the driver may have encountered conditions that accelerated wear, such as aggressive braking, uneven load distribution, or exposure to harsh road surfaces. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests also implies consistent usage, which could have contributed to the observed wear patterns. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect immediately are the front brake system and tyres, given the recurring advisories and the risk of further degradation. On a test drive, listen for unusual brake pulsation or shudder, which could indicate warped or binding discs, and check for uneven brake pad wear or excessive heat signatures around the calipers. Inspect the front tyres for signs of cord exposure, which is a clear warning of internal tyre failure and should be addressed without delay. The structural corrosion advisories in the inner sills suggest that the vehicle has been exposed to moisture, and while the structural integrity is not currently compromised, the owner should monitor these areas for signs of progression, particularly in wet or salty conditions. A thorough visual inspection of the suspension components, including coil springs and suspension bushes, for signs of wear or cracking is also advisable, as the binding brake issue may be linked to misalignment or suspension degradation. In addition to the above, the buyer should verify the condition of the rear brakes, as the 2026 MOT noted a binding rear service brake without excessive severity. Test for consistent brake pedal travel and responsiveness, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn rear pads or warped discs. The registration plate lamp issue is a minor but persistent concern, and while it does not affect roadworthiness, it should be repaired to ensure compliance with legal requirements. For the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should also check the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity over time. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive fluid check—including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—is recommended, as these fluids degrade over time even without significant mileage. If service records are available, verify that scheduled maintenance such as valve adjustments, spark plug replacements, and timing belt servicing have been completed, as these are critical for long-term reliability.