2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2L Diesel · WR12 WFJ

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-12-01, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The 2025 test flagged three tyres nearing or at legal wear limits and thin rear brake pads — all consumables that require immediate replacement. These are not structural issues, but their recurrence signals a pattern of deferred maintenance, especially since the same tyres were flagged in 2023 and 2024, suggesting the previous owner did not replace them when recommended. The brake pad wear, while not critical, indicates a lack of proactive servicing. Mileage progression shows a steady annual average of around 7,954 miles, which is typical for a 14-year-old vehicle. There are no sudden spikes or gaps in the record — each MOT was taken within a year of the previous, and the mileage increased consistently from 71,915 in 2022 to 111,363 in 2025. This steady climb suggests regular use, not long-term storage, and implies that wear on suspension, brakes, and tyres is expected — but not excessive for its age. The absence of any major defects in the 2023 December test is a rare positive, but it was quickly followed by a cascade of suspension and brake issues in 2024 and 2025. Buyers should inspect the front suspension components closely — particularly the ball joint dust covers, which have been repeatedly flagged since 2022. These are not just cosmetic; deteriorated covers allow dirt ingress and accelerate joint wear, potentially leading to failure. The corrosion on both rear coil springs, noted as early as 2022, is a structural concern — it weakens the suspension’s load-bearing capacity and may require replacement if the rust has penetrated the metal. Brake discs and pads, especially at the front, show signs of consistent wear without replacement, which could indicate neglect. Tyre condition is critical — all four tyres were near or at legal limits in 2025, and their replacement is mandatory before the next MOT. The vehicle’s mechanical health is serviceable but not robust. It has been maintained enough to pass MOTs, but not enough to prevent recurring wear on key safety components. A buyer should budget for immediate tyre replacement, brake pad and disc inspection, and a full suspension assessment — especially the front ball joints and rear coil springs — before committing to purchase. The history suggests the car has been driven regularly, but not cared for with precision.