2017 Mitsubishi L200 2.4L Diesel · YY17 BVP

The 2017 Mitsubishi L200 most recently passed its MOT on 25 March 2026, although the test returned three advisories relating to an offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge, and external corrosion damage to the casings of both rear shock absorbers. The broader trend across the recorded MOT history indicates a gradual accumulation of wear-related advisories rather than a sudden deterioration, but the picture is not entirely reassuring. The 21 March 2025 test stands out as a particular concern, as it began with a failed submission driven by a dangerous nearside front inner brake pad found to be less than 1.5 mm thick, well below the serviceable threshold. That same inspection also flagged the front brake pads as wearing thin generally, both rear shock absorbers for casing corrosion, and both front anti-roll bar D bushes for wear, with the latter anti-roll bar issue reappearing again in 2024. The recurrence of suspension-related advisories across two consecutive tests suggests progressive wear rather than an isolated observation. With approximately 106,500 miles recorded over nine years, the L200 has been driven at an annual rate of roughly 11,800 miles, which is broadly average for a working vehicle of its type and age. This is consistent with steady, mixed-use operation rather than extended periods of standing or unusually heavy commercial duty, although a dual-cab pick-up of this vintage will typically experience some towing or load-bearing use that accelerates wear on clutch, brakes, and rear suspension components. The relatively even progression of mileage between MOT entries indicates the vehicle has been in regular service, which is generally favourable for drivetrain longevity but means that consumables such as clutches, dual-mass flywheels, and turbocharger bearings may be approaching the later stages of their expected service life. Given the history of front brake pad issues and the dangerous failure recorded in early 2025, a prospective buyer should confirm in writing precisely what rectification work was carried out following the dangerous defect and request all accompanying invoices. Both front brake discs should be physically inspected for lipping, hot spots, or corrosion pitting, as pads replaced on worn discs rarely bed in correctly and can produce brake shudder under heavy pedal application. On a test drive, listen for any metallic scraping, squeal under light braking, or vibration through the steering wheel, and verify that the vehicle pulls up in a controlled, straight line without pulling to either side, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. The nearside front inner pad reaching dangerous thickness despite being an inner component suggests the outer pad may also have been marginal, so a thorough inspection of all four corners including any visible through the wheel spokes is essential, ideally with the wheels removed for a proper measurement of remaining friction material. The recurring advisories on the rear shock absorbers and front anti-roll bar bushes warrant particular attention on any physical inspection. Shock absorber casing corrosion on a nine-year-old vehicle exposed to winter road salt can progress quickly from surface marking through to structural compromise, so the rear dampers should be examined for advanced rust, fluid seepage from the seal areas, and any signs of the shaft pitting beneath the rubber gaiter. On the road, bouncing the rear of the vehicle and watching for excessive secondary oscillation will give a good indication of damper integrity, while sharp speed humps taken at modest pace should produce a single controlled compression rather than a clonking, oscillating movement. The worn anti-roll bar D bushes, if not already replaced, will typically present as a clonking or knocking noise from the front end over uneven surfaces and can be confirmed by rocking the anti-roll bar laterally with the wheels off the ground. Beyond the recorded defects, any L200 of this age and mileage should be checked for age-related issues including tyre sidewall perishing and cracking, brake disc surface corrosion from standing, 12V battery health given the vehicle's electronic load, and the condition and age of the timing belt if fitted, along with a full review of the service book to verify regular oil, coolant, and transmission fluid changes have been completed at the correct intervals.