2003 Mitsubishi Delica 3.0L Petrol · YR03 KST

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a persistent pattern of deteriorating rubber components and suspension wear. In the most recent test in May 2026 at 89,813 miles, the car passed despite advisories for deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers on both front corners and a worn nearside rear bush. While the vehicle passes, the recurring nature of steering arm play and oil misting on the offside front shock absorber suggests that the suspension and steering geometry are entering a phase where components require proactive replacement. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 23-year-old vehicle, with 89,813 miles representing an average annual usage of approximately 3,900 miles. The data shows consistent low-way travel between tests, such as the 2,294 miles covered between April 2025 and May 2026, and similar small gaps in previous years. This low mileage likely explains the age-related degradation of flexible rubber parts, such as perished bushes and perished tyres, which dry out and crack over time irrespective of how little the car is driven. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the steering and suspension assembly, as offside front steering arm play and steering rack inner joint issues have been flagged repeatedly since 2023. The presence of a damp gearbox reported in April 2025 warrants a close look for active leaks to ensure the seal failure is not nearing critical levels. Furthermore, the advisory for under-sill corrosion noted in 2024 necessitates a detailed check of structural integrity, as rust on theills is a common failure point for Japanese Delicas of this era.