2001 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0L Petrol · Y331 ATR

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 31 May 2024 recorded a pass with no defects at 136 507 miles, confirming current roadworthiness. The maintenance history shows a mixed trend: after a series of failures in 2018‑2019—including rear brake disc deterioration, CV joint gaiter damage and tyre tread deficiencies—the 2024 test is clean, suggesting the identified issues have been addressed or have not progressed further. Earlier entries from 2012‑2015 reveal recurring suspension wear (ball joint play, track rod end looseness) and brake disc wear, indicating a pattern of progressive component fatigue that required periodic attention. Mileage accumulation has been low for a 25‑year‑old car, averaging roughly 5 460 miles per year. The 2019 test logged 136 597 miles, while the 2024 entry shows 136 507 miles—a slight decrease that points to data inconsistency rather than actual mileage loss. The gap between tests (about 5 years) and the recent 2024 pass mean the vehicle’s current mechanical state is well within the MOT window, but the long intervals between inspections may have allowed some wear to go unchecked. A prospective buyer should inspect the rear suspension ball joints for play, the rear brake discs for pitting or scoring, and verify tyre tread depths meet the 1.6 mm legal minimum. The front CV joint gaiter should be examined for tears that could permit contamination, and the exhaust system checked for carbon‑monoxide leaks, given the 2015 failure. Visual inspection for rust (“crusty everywhere”) is essential, as extensive corrosion can compromise structural integrity. Finally, confirm that all front and rear lighting circuits operate, the registration plate height complies, and the washer fluid reservoir is topped up. Documented repairs for the suspension and brake components, together with any rust remediation, will be critical to assessing long‑term reliability.