2013 Mitsubishi L200 2.5L Diesel · WR13 LLJ

The most recent MOT on 17 July 2026 was passed, but it recorded two minor failures – severe deterioration of the near‑side and off‑side front upper suspension arm ball‑joint dust covers – and three advisories concerning a severely corroded brake pipe, a near‑side front tyre close to the legal limit and a deteriorated CV boot on the near‑side front inner drive‑shaft joint. Over the past six years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring corrosion advisories on the brake pipe network and a handful of minor wear items, interspersed with isolated failures that have since been rectified. The overall maintenance trend can be described as broadly stable, yet the persistence of brake‑pipe corrosion and the emergence of new suspension‑related wear suggest that attention to these areas is increasingly important. At 82 397 mi the L200 averages roughly 6 300 mi per year, which is low for a thirteen‑year‑old pickup and points to relatively light use or extended periods of inactivity. Such modest mileage reduces the cumulative wear on drivetrain components, brakes and suspension, but it also means that age‑related degradation – particularly of rubber seals, hoses and tyre sidewalls – may be more pronounced than mileage alone would indicate. The low annual mileage combined with the vehicle’s age raises the likelihood of dried‑out bushings, perished tyre compounds and potential corrosion from standing periods. Prospective buyers should give the brake‑pipe corrosion a thorough visual inspection, looking for rust, pitting or any signs of fluid leakage at the near‑side, off‑side and central pipes. During a test drive, the pedal should feel firm and return promptly; any sponginess, pulsation or a noticeable drop in pressure may indicate internal pipe deterioration or a failing master cylinder. The front suspension dust‑covers and ball‑joint boots should be examined for cracked or missing material; any clunking or excessive play when the steering wheel is rocked at a standstill can reveal worn bushings or loosened joints. The CV boot on the near‑side inner drive‑shaft should be checked for grease leakage or torn fabric, as a failed boot can lead to joint wear and eventual loss of drive‑shaft function. Verify that all rear position lamps and the registration plate lamp operate correctly, as these were the cause of a recent failure, and confirm that the windscreen wipers clear the glass effectively. Given the vehicle’s age, also inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; even if the tread meets legal limits, sidewall cracking or hardening is a common symptom of calendar ageing and can precipitate sudden failure. Examine the 12 V battery for signs of sulphation or reduced cranking power, especially if the vehicle has spent long periods idle. Check that the coolant, brake fluid and gear‑oil have been changed within the recommended service intervals – fluids can degrade over time regardless of mileage, leading to reduced cooling, corrosion or compromised braking performance. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, filter replacements and any previous suspension or brake‑pipe work, as a well‑documented maintenance history will mitigate many of the age‑related risks identified.