1997 Toyota Landcruiser Colorado 3.0L Diesel · C4 ESC

The vehicle remains roadworthy, having passed its most recent MOT in October 2025 at 143,440 miles with no recorded defects. The maintenance trend shows signs of reactive improvement following a failure in late 2023. While the November 2024 test identified a minor rear exhaust leak, the clean sheet from the October 2025 inspection suggests the current owner is addressing identified mechanical issues before they escalate into major test failures. At 29 years old, the recorded mileage of 143,440 miles represents a low average of approximately 4,900 miles per year. The data shows consistent usage patterns, with roughly 4,000 miles covered between the November 2024 and October 2025 tests. This low-mileage profile suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy-duty commercial work, though low mileage often correlates with the degradation of rubber-based components and increased corrosion rather than mechanical wear from distance. A prospective buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the structural integrity of the chassis and body. The November 2023 record flagged corrosion on the rear integral body structure, although the tester noted that structural rigidity remained intact at that time. Given the age of the Land Cruiser, rust should be monitored for progression, particularly in load-bearing areas. Additionally, since all four coil springs were noted as corroded in 2023, these should be checked for signs of fracturing or thinning metal, as corrosion can lead to sudden failure under load. The exhaust system also requires attention to ensure the leak identified in November 2024 was fully rectified and is not indicative of deeper pipe degradation. While the electrical fault regarding the nearside stop lamp in 2023 appears resolved, a general check of the lighting and wiring loom is advisable for a vehicle of this era. The consistent exposure to the elements makes the suspension components and structural metalwork the primary long-term risks for this specific example.