2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse 1.5L Petrol · WM67 LDV

The Mitsubishi Eclipse has maintained a stable roadworthiness record over the past two years, with no major defects recorded in the most recent July 2025 MOT at 52,583 miles. The only minor advisory in that test was the presence of a child seat obstructing a full inspection of the rear adult belt, which is a non-mechanical issue. Prior to that, the December 2024 test at 50,339 miles was entirely clean, suggesting that any previous concerns had been addressed. However, the recurring advisory for thin rear brake pads in June 2023 and December 2022 indicates that while the vehicle passed, this was a persistent issue that should have prompted replacement before the pads reached a critical wear state. The front brake pads were also flagged as thin in December 2022, though not repeated in later tests, implying they were likely renewed afterward. Overall, the trend shows a vehicle that has been kept in a functional state, though with some deferred maintenance on braking components. The Eclipse’s low annual mileage—averaging around 5,843 miles per year—is well below the UK average for a nine-year-old vehicle, suggesting either light use or extended periods of inactivity. The mileage jump between December 2021 (30,983 miles) and December 2022 (45,189 miles) indicates a period of increased use, adding roughly 14,206 miles in just over a year, which is still modest but may explain the accelerated wear on brake pads during that time. The lack of significant mileage accumulation beyond that point, however, aligns with the clean MOTs in 2024 and 2025, reinforcing the impression of a vehicle that has not been subjected to heavy or frequent driving. This pattern reduces wear on suspension, drivetrain, and structural components but does not excuse the delayed attention to brake pad replacement, which was flagged repeatedly. For a prospective buyer, the most critical area to inspect in person is the braking system, particularly the rear pads and discs, given the persistent advisories for thin pads in 2022 and 2023. The front brakes were also flagged once, so checking for uneven wear or premature thinning on both axles is advisable. The registration plate issues in 2021 and 2022—deterioration and insecurity—are minor but suggest the previous owner may not have prioritised cosmetic or administrative upkeep, which could extend to other overlooked details. Structural integrity appears sound, with no corrosion or suspension advisories recorded, but a thorough check of the rear suspension bushes and coil springs is prudent, especially if the vehicle has spent time in damp conditions. Tyre condition should also be verified, as the 2021 MOT noted a nail in the nearside rear tyre, which may have been repaired or replaced since. Finally, the repeated obstruction from child seats during belt inspections implies limited access to the rear seatbelt system, so testing the rear belts’ functionality is recommended.