2021 MG ZS Exclusive EV Electric · YA70 OEU

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2021 MG ZS EXCLUSIVE EV was conducted on 2025-12-22, resulting in a passing outcome despite the presence of several advisories. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement, with a notable failure in 2025-12-22 due to a severe offside front tyre defect—specifically, a cut exceeding the permitted depth, which reached the tyre’s cords or ply, a critical failure that would compromise road safety. While the 2024 and 2023 MOTs were passed, the advisories from those tests—particularly the repeated warnings about tyre sidewall damage, cracking, and nail punctures—suggest ongoing wear concerns that may have escalated. The presence of a major failure in 2025 indicates that the vehicle’s tyre condition has not been adequately addressed, and the advisories from prior tests were likely dismissed or overlooked, posing a risk of further deterioration if not properly managed. The vehicle’s mileage of 46,265 miles at the time of this assessment is consistent with a typical annual usage rate of around 9,253 miles, which is moderate for a five-year-old EV given its age and likely lower operational costs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. However, the recorded mileage does not suggest extreme wear patterns, such as rapid mileage accumulation that might indicate aggressive driving or prolonged periods of high stress on components. Instead, the data implies a steady, moderate usage profile, which could mean that consumables like brakes and tyres have been subjected to gradual wear rather than sudden, high-impact deterioration. The absence of significant mileage spikes or gaps in the MOT history does not necessarily indicate perfect maintenance, but it does not strongly suggest severe abuse either. Given the recurring advisories and the critical tyre failure from the most recent MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the front offside tyre, which has suffered the most severe damage. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, particularly around the offside front corner, and check for uneven wear patterns or signs of cord exposure, which could indicate further deterioration. The vehicle’s braking system also warrants attention, as the advisories from prior MOTs—including worn, pitted brake discs and brake imbalance—suggest that the pads or rotors may be nearing end-of-life or that the system requires realignment. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, binding, or excessive glazing, and listen for grinding or squealing noises, which could signal worn pads or warped discs. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is clean and free of contamination, as standing fluid can corrode components over time. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid systems. Given the age and mileage, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre’s integrity and lead to blowouts. Inspect the suspension components for signs of wear, such as cracked or swollen coil springs, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged strut mounts. The battery health should be assessed, as EVs can suffer from reduced capacity or failure if left unused for extended periods, particularly if the vehicle has been parked for long durations without charging. Finally, ensure that all fluids—including the brake, coolant, and power steering fluids—are topped up and free of debris, as fluid degradation over time can accelerate component failure. If the vehicle has been in storage, verify that the battery is charged and that the charging system is functioning correctly to prevent long-term damage.