2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6L Petrol · WN08 MVE

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT status but exhibits a worsening mechanical trend regarding its steering and suspension components. While it passed the latest test in September 2025 at 63,622 miles, this followed a failure just two days prior at 63,616 miles. The recent failure identified critical issues including a fractured offside anti-roll bar linkage bracket and play in the steering rack inner joints, suggesting that the steering system is reaching the end of its functional life and requires immediate attention. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for an eighteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,500 miles per year. Between August 2024 and September 2025, the car covered only 2,611 miles, indicating patterns of infrequent use or long stationary periods. However, this low usage often correlates with the degradation of rubber-based components due to age. The 2025 failure noted exposed cords on the nearside rear tyre and perishing offside rear, which are classic signs of age-related dry rot rather than wear, despite the low odometer reading. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the steering rack and power steering ram, as the recorded seepage in 2025 indicates a persistent leak that will likely worsen. The history shows a pattern of suspension neglect, from deteriorated ball joint dust covers in 2022 to the fractured mounting bracket in 2025. Additionally, the recurring pitting and scoring on the rear brake discs noted in both 2022 and 2023 suggest the vehicle may have sat for long enough to allow corrosion to build on the metal surfaces, necessitating a check of the braking hardware to ensure safe stopping performance.