2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Diesel · WN59 DWU

The Mitsubishi Lancer’s MOT history presents a concerning inconsistency, with the most recent test on 12 September 2025 at 155,297 miles resulting in a fail —despite no defects being recorded. This is unusual, as a fail typically requires at least one major or dangerous defect, yet the absence of any noted issues suggests either an administrative error or a highly targeted inspection. The prior test, just 12 months earlier on 30 September 2024 at 145,436 miles , passed without defects, indicating no obvious mechanical deterioration in that period. However, the double entry on 11 September 2023 —one pass, one fail—at 134,295 miles raises further questions, as this suggests either a retest after a minor issue was resolved or another anomaly. The overall trend is unclear, but the lack of documented faults across five tests in three years implies either meticulous maintenance or a vehicle that has avoided major failures through luck rather than upkeep. The mileage accumulation of 9,135 miles per year aligns closely with the average for a 17-year-old vehicle, suggesting neither extreme light use nor heavy commercial operation. The 10,861-mile gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests (from 127,969 to 134,295 miles ) is the longest interval, which could indicate the car was stored or used sparingly during that period. More recently, the 9,861 miles covered between the 2024 and 2025 tests (from 145,436 to 155,297 miles ) is more typical, though the sudden fail in 2025 disrupts the otherwise clean record. Without advisories or defects, there’s no clear pattern of wear, but the irregularities in test outcomes demand closer scrutiny—particularly if the car has been sold or changed hands recently. Given the absence of documented faults, a prospective buyer should prioritise a pre-purchase inspection focusing on structural integrity, suspension components, and brake systems , as these are often overlooked in basic MOT checks. Pay particular attention to corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points , especially on a 17-year-old model where rust can compromise structural safety. Check for play in steering, uneven tyre wear, or binding in the brakes , as these could indicate worn suspension bushes, damaged coil springs, or seized calipers—issues that might not always trigger an MOT advisory. The exhaust system should also be inspected for leaks or excessive corrosion , while the emissions system (if equipped with a catalytic converter or DPF) may need verification if the car has been modified or driven in a way that could cause premature failure. Finally, verify the service history for evidence of regular maintenance, as the clean MOT record alone does not guarantee the vehicle has been properly cared for.