2015 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · WN65 TOH

Corrosion is the defining theme of this Outlander's history, and it is steadily spreading rather than being addressed. The October 2025 test resulted in a pass, but the advisory list has grown year on year: what began as corroded front and rear coil springs in 2023 has now extended to corroded suspension components generally and, more significantly, corrosion on both the front and rear subframes, albeit recorded as not seriously weakened. Alongside this sits a persistent steering issue, with play in the offside front steering rack inner joint flagged at every test since 2022, and the 2025 test adding slight free play detected at the steering wheel itself. The trend is worsening rather than stable, and none of the recurring advisories appear to have been rectified between tests. The recorded mileage of 68,018 over eleven years equates to roughly 6,200 miles annually, which is unremarkable and consistent with regular year-round use rather than extended lay-up. Tests have occurred at steady twelve-month intervals each October with no gaps, so the odometer record appears coherent. This usage pattern means the corrosion noted is more likely a function of age and exposure to UK road conditions than neglect through standing, but it also means the car has seen enough winters for salt-related deterioration to take hold underneath, which the subframe and coil spring advisories confirm. For a prospective buyer, the priority is a thorough underside inspection, ideally on a ramp. The front and rear subframes should be probed for flaking, scaling, or soft metal, since an advisory of "not seriously weakened" can progress to a structural failure within a year or two if left untreated. The corroded coil springs on both axles deserve close attention too, as a weakened spring can fracture without warning, typically announcing itself first with a knock or a sagging corner. Ask whether any rust treatment or undersealing has been carried out since the last test, and factor the cost of subframe remediation into any offer. On the test drive, focus on the steering and suspension. The recurring inner rack joint play and free play at the wheel may present as vagueness or a slight dead spot around the straight-ahead position, a light rattle over rough surfaces, or uneven front tyre wear. Listen for clunks from the front over bumps, which could also implicate the anti-roll bar ball joint flagged in 2021, and check that the front brake pads advised as wearing thin in 2023 have since been replaced by inspecting pad thickness or asking for invoices. The offside rear tyre flagged for perishing and edge wear in 2021 and 2022 should be checked for even tread across the axle, as repeated edge wear can indicate alignment issues linked to the steering play.