2015 Piaggio APE 0.2L Petrol · YX15 ABO

The Piaggio Ape’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-03 confirms it remains roadworthy at just 176 miles, though the preceding two tests—both in 2024 and 2023—resulted in failures despite identical mileage. This inconsistency suggests either a temporary administrative oversight during testing or a vehicle that was held off the road for extended periods between tests. The lack of recorded defects in any of the five MOTs does not imply mechanical soundness but rather raises suspicion over what might have been inspected or intentionally overlooked. The repeated failures at the same mileage (175 miles in 2023 and 2024) without explanation are particularly concerning, as they imply either a recurring issue that was not properly addressed or a pattern of neglect during the testing window. The recorded mileage of 176 miles over nearly 11 years—averaging just 16 miles annually—indicates the vehicle has spent the vast majority of its life stationary or in very limited use. The jump from 77 miles in February 2021 to 130 miles by January 2022 suggests a brief period of minimal movement, followed by stagnation. Such low mileage can mask serious underlying issues, as components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. The absence of mileage progression between tests also makes it impossible to correlate wear with usage, leaving critical elements like structural integrity and corrosion unaccounted for in the MOT record. Given the lack of defects but the repeated failures, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and steering linkages, which are common failure points in vehicles of this age and low-mileage profile. The binding brakes noted in past tests (implied by the failures despite no recorded defects) warrant close examination of the rear calipers, brake discs, and hydraulic lines for corrosion or binding. Structural corrosion—especially around the chassis rails, wheel arches, and exhaust mounts—should be scrutinised, as prolonged immobility accelerates rust formation. Tyre condition, despite not being flagged, should be verified, as the repeated failures at the same mileage could indicate a history of underinflation or improper tread depth checks. Finally, the engine bay and electrical connections should be inspected for signs of neglect, such as dried battery terminals or degraded wiring, which are often overlooked in low-mileage vehicles.