2015 Mitsubishi L200 2.5L Diesel · XL55 DAD

The Mitsubishi L200’s most recent MOT test on 16 October 2025—just nine months prior to today—confirms it passed without defects, though the preceding history reveals a pattern of persistent brake and tyre concerns. While the final pass suggests recent compliance, earlier tests highlight recurring issues: corroded brake pipes (notably with grease contamination), thin front brake pads, and tyres running dangerously close to legal limits. The absence of advisories or structural failures in the latest test is encouraging, but the repeated failures in 2022—particularly the defective seatbelt retractor and corroded brake pipes—suggest previous owners either overlooked maintenance or deferred critical repairs. The brake system’s history is the most concerning, with corrosion and contamination indicating long-term neglect, potentially compromising hydraulic integrity. The vehicle’s mileage progression of roughly 11,556 miles annually aligns with typical usage for its age, though the gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests—spanning 11,444 miles in 11 months—implies inconsistent servicing. The 2022 failures occurred within a single day (108,582 vs. 108,594 miles), suggesting either a rushed inspection or a vehicle left in a borderline condition. No tests are recorded between 2022 and 2023, a 14-month gap that raises questions about whether critical components were addressed or if the vehicle was stored without proper care. The most recent pass at 127,121 miles, however, indicates the vehicle has been driven regularly since then without immediate failures. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the brake system, particularly the front brake pipes for further corrosion or contamination, and verify the condition of all brake pads and discs for uneven wear or glazing. The tyres, especially the front pair, should be checked for remaining tread depth and signs of uneven wear, as the history suggests they were repeatedly neglected. The seatbelt retractor from the 2022 failure should be tested for proper retraction and tension, while the suspension bushes and coil springs should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, given the vehicle’s age and mileage. Structural rust around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is also worth assessing, as it could indicate broader neglect. Documenting the current condition of all previously flagged components will provide clarity on whether the vehicle has been properly maintained since the last MOT.