2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Diesel · WP10 WRZ

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer’s most recent MOT test on 16 March 2022—just 14 days after a prior failure—shows a concerning lack of maintenance consistency rather than a clear worsening or improving trend. The vehicle passed without defects on its final test, but the January 2022 failure (at 146,923 miles) suggests either a rushed repair or a critical oversight that was not addressed before the subsequent test. The absence of any recorded defects in either test period means no mechanical or structural issues were formally documented by the tester, though this does not preclude undocumented wear or deferred maintenance. The gap of nearly four years between the 2022 tests and today’s date (as of July 2026) is significant, as it exceeds the standard 12-month MOT validity window. This implies the vehicle has likely been driven without a current MOT since March 2022, raising immediate legal and safety concerns for any prospective buyer. The recorded mileage of 146,935 miles over approximately 16 years equates to an average of around 9,183 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no visible gaps or spikes in mileage between the two 2022 tests, suggesting consistent usage rather than periods of neglect or excessive standing. However, the lack of MOT history beyond 2022 means no data exists to confirm whether the vehicle was maintained regularly before that point. The absence of earlier test records also prevents assessment of whether recurring issues—such as brake binding, suspension wear, or exhaust emissions—were previously flagged and addressed. Without this context, the current mileage alone provides limited insight into the vehicle’s true condition. Given the sparse MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components that often fail without clear warning. The suspension—particularly coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for uneven sagging, excessive play, or corrosion, as these are common failure points in vehicles of this age. Brake systems warrant close scrutiny, including disc thickness, caliper binding, and rotor warping, as the January 2022 failure (if not documented) could indicate prior brake-related issues. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, must be checked for corrosion, as rust can compromise safety-critical elements. Exhaust emissions should also be monitored, as older vehicles frequently develop leaks or catalytic converter inefficiencies that go undetected without a recent test. The absence of MOT data post-2022 further necessitates verification of service history for oil changes, timing belt (if applicable), and fluid levels, as these directly impact long-term reliability.