2012 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8L Diesel · WR12 FSL

Recurring suspension component wear and brake component depletion define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, with the most recent MOT passed on 24 September 2025. The history shows a persistent pattern of advisories relating to the rear suspension trailing arm bushes, which were flagged in 2024 and remained an advisory in the latest 2025 test. This trend of wear in the suspension linkages, combined with previous failures regarding shock absorber fluid leaks and advisories for thinning brake pads and worn discs, suggests a vehicle where consumable and rubber components are reaching the end of their service life in cycles. The recorded mileage of 97,644 miles over approximately 14 years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 6,975 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with lower-than-average annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of usage typically results in less frequent wear on drivetrain components compared to high-mileage vehicles, but it can also lead to the degradation of rubber elements, such as the tyre perishing and suspension bush wear noted in the records, as these components often age due to time and environmental exposure rather than distance travelled. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension during a test drive, specifically listening for knocking, clunking, or thudding noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate the worn trailing arm bushes have progressed beyond the advisory stage. The history of brake pad and disc advisories between 2023 and 2024 necessitates a thorough check of the braking system. During operation, look for any pedal judder, pulsation, or uneven pulling under braking, which could signal uneven disc wear or binding calipers. Further inspection is required regarding the previously noted oil leak from 2021 and the 2022 failure involving a leaking nearside front shock absorber. While the shock absorber was recorded as repaired to pass the 2022 test, the presence of an oil leak in the records warrants a visual inspection of the engine bay and underside for fresh seepage. Additionally, given the repeated advisories for tyre cracking, perishing, and edge wear, the current condition of all four tyres should be scrutinised for sidewall cracking or uneven tread wear patterns that might suggest underlying alignment issues.