2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse 1.5L Petrol · WM67 XPW

The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse passed its most recent DVSA MOT test on 26 January 2026, albeit with two advisories noting that both front tyres were worn close to the legal limit and on their edges. Reviewing the recorded history, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, but it is not without concerns. The vehicle passed cleanly in 2021, 2023, and 2025, with only minor advisories recorded across that period. However, it did suffer an advisory-free failure on 21 January 2025 due to an offside rear brake pad that had worn down to its wear indicator, classified as a major defect, alongside a presentation failure in January 2022 for both headlamp aims being set too high. The recurrence of tyre wear advisories on both axles across consecutive tests is the strongest theme in the file and warrants close attention, as it suggests either an underlying geometry issue, habitual kerbing, or simply that the consumables are reaching the end of their service life. With a recorded mileage of 43,220 miles over approximately eight years, this Eclipse has covered around 5,400 miles annually, which is considerably below the national average and indicative of light use or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage typically means the engine, clutch, and drivetrain have experienced less mechanical wear than a higher-mileage equivalent, but it also raises the probability of time-related degradation. Standing can encourage moisture accumulation in the engine oil, brake calliper seizure due to corrosion on the slide pins and pistons, and oxidation of brake fluid, which is hygroscopic and should normally be renewed biennially regardless of mileage. Coolant, transmission fluid, and the 12V battery also degrade with calendar age rather than mileage, so the battery should be load-tested and the production date stamp verified, as eight-year-old units are well past their reliable service window. Given the recurring tyre advisories, particularly the edge wear noted on all four corners across different tests, a prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect the current tyres for both tread depth and uneven shoulder wear, as well as sidewall cracking or perishing consistent with age. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocking from worn bushes, anti-roll bar links, or top mounts, and pay particular attention to steering precision, as any drift or vagueness could indicate tracking misalignment or worn front suspension components that would explain the repeated edge wear pattern. The rear brake system also requires verification following the 2025 wear-indicator failure; inspect the offside rear caliper for free operation and check the rear discs for lipping or corrosion, since a binding caliper will accelerate pad wear disproportionately on one side. Beyond the documented items, several age-appropriate inspections are advisable given the low annual mileage profile. Examine the underside and wheel arches for standing rust, particularly on suspension arms, subframe mounting points, and brake lines, which can corrode externally even on low-mileage vehicles. Verify the condition of the brake fluid by checking its colour and confirming the most recent service date, as brake fluid renews on time rather than mileage. Likewise, confirm when the engine oil and filter were last changed, inspect the coolant for proper concentration, and check the condition of all drive belts and the air conditioning system, as low usage often leads to seized compressor seals and perished rubber components. Finally, with tyre perishing previously noted on the rear axle in 2024, any tyres older than five years from their DOT date stamp should be regarded as due for renewal purely on age grounds, regardless of remaining tread depth.