2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse 1.5L Petrol · WM67 LDF

The most recent DVSA examination on 30 January 2026 resulted in an initial failure presentation followed by a pass on the same date, indicating that the identified defects were rectified promptly before the vehicle was re-presented and cleared. The two major failure items were both rear anti-roll bar pin or bush defects, specifically the D bushes on the nearside and offside, which were recorded as excessively worn. Beyond these major items, three advisories were carried forward into the pass certificate relating to the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, alongside perishing or slight damage noted on both front tyres. Whilst the immediate test outcome is a pass, the presence of structural suspension wear at such moderate mileage and the recurring nature of front tyre edge wear and perishing across multiple test cycles suggests the underlying maintenance trajectory is one of gradual deterioration rather than stable condition, and warrants close physical inspection prior to purchase. The recorded mileage of 52,428 miles over a nine-year service life equates to an annual average of approximately 5,825 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and indicates either light personal use or extended periods of standing. There is no evidence within the MOT history of unusual mileage jumps between tests, with the gaps between annual examinations reflecting broadly consistent low usage patterns. Whilst low mileage reduces wear on high-stress drivetrain components such as the clutch, gearbox and engine internals, it does elevate the risk of age-related degradation in items that suffer through inactivity. Standing corrosion on brake discs, potential caliper seizure from infrequent actuation, deterioration of rubber components including tyres, hoses, and suspension bushes through environmental exposure rather than mechanical wear, and degradation of time-sensitive fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery are all pertinent concerns given this usage profile. For a prospective buyer, the rear anti-roll bar D bushes that triggered the most recent major failure merit particular attention. These components are load-bearing and contribute meaningfully to vehicle stability and cornering composure, and when worn they typically manifest as clonking or rattling noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, vague or wandering handling characteristics, and excessive body roll during directional changes. It is essential to confirm with the seller whether genuine Mitsubishi replacement bushes or a quality aftermarket equivalent were fitted, and whether the related drop links were renewed at the same time, as these are commonly replaced together for a complete repair. On a test drive, listen carefully for any residual suspension noise over speed bumps and during lane-change manoeuvres, and verify that the rear end feels settled and predictable rather than loose or unstable. Beyond the suspension concerns, the recurring advisories on the front tyres warrant direct physical scrutiny. Both nearside and offside front tyres have been flagged for perishing or cracking across consecutive tests, alongside nearside edge wear, indicating a persistent issue that may relate to tracking geometry, suspension geometry compromised by worn components, or simply the natural ageing of rubber given the vehicle's low annual mileage. Age-related sidewall perishing can compromise structural integrity even where tread depth remains legal, and a buyer should inspect all four tyres closely for hairline cracks in the sidewall rubber, uneven shoulder wear, and overall manufacture date through the DOT stamp. Given the brake advisories recorded in earlier tests, including pitted and scored front and rear discs together with thin pads in 2022 and 2025, a thorough inspection of brake disc condition, pad thickness remaining, and caliper slide pin operation is strongly advised, particularly as discs fitted to a low-mileage vehicle can suffer from corrosion pitting through infrequent use. Additionally, although not flagged on the MOT record, it remains prudent to verify the age and condition of the 12V battery, the service history stamps, the condition and age of the brake fluid, and the integrity of the exhaust system given the calendar age of the vehicle.