1990 Talbot Express 2.5L Diesel · G447 RNX

This 1990 Talbot Express presents a mixed but broadly stable roadworthiness picture as of its most recent MOT on 5 June 2025 at 84,279 miles. The vehicle passed, yet the tester flagged corrosion on the offside front inner integral body structure, a defective central exhaust mounting, a minor exhaust gas leak at the tailpipe, a stiff nearside rear brake load sensing valve, light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber, slight play in the offside front wheel bearing, and underinflated and damaged obligatory mirrors. Comparing this to the April 2024 test at 83,657 miles, several issues persist. The exhaust mounting defect, offside front wheel bearing play, and nearside front shock absorber oil misting appear in both 2024 and 2025, indicating these faults have not been rectified over the intervening fourteen months. The offside front inner wing corrosion advisory from 2023 has now progressed to a corrosion-related advisory on the integral body structure in 2025, suggesting the corrosion is slowly advancing rather than being actively managed. The brake load sensing valve stiffness is a new item in 2025, while the slow brake pressure build-up noted in 2022 does not recur, implying that specific hydraulic concern may have been addressed. Overall, the maintenance trend is one of partial attention rather than systematic upkeep, with some items resolved while others are left to deteriorate. The recorded mileage of 84,279 miles across approximately 36 years equates to roughly 2,341 miles per year, which is notably low for a commercial vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows a gap between April 2022 at 82,161 miles and April 2023 at 82,805 miles, representing just 644 miles in twelve months, followed by a similar incremental rise to 83,657 miles by April 2024 and then to 84,279 miles by June 2025. This pattern suggests the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary, which carries its own risks. Prolonged standing can cause brake seizing, tyre flat-spotting, fuel degradation, and accelerated corrosion of unprotected metalwork, particularly in the subframe, sills, and suspension mounting points. The low mileage does not necessarily mean lower wear in the way one might expect, because age-related deterioration of rubber bushes, seals, and corrosion-prone steel components progresses regardless of use. A buyer inspecting this vehicle in person should focus on the offside front inner wing and surrounding structural area, where corrosion has been flagged across multiple tests and appears to be worsening. Probe the inner wing, sill, and suspension mounting points with careful attention to whether surface corrosion has progressed to perforation or structural weakening. The exhaust system warrants close examination, given the recurring mounting defect and tailpipe gas leak, as a failed mounting can place stress on the exhaust system and lead to further cracking or detachment. The nearside front shock absorber showing light oil misting should be checked for full damping function and replaced if the misting has progressed to active weeping, as degraded shock absorbers compromise handling and braking performance. The stiff nearside rear brake load sensing valve is a functional concern that can cause uneven rear braking or premature rear brake wear, and it should be tested for free operation. Both front wheel bearings, particularly the offside, should be checked for play, as slight play left unaddressed can escalate to bearing failure. The obligatory mirrors flagged as slightly damaged on both sides in 2025 should be inspected for security and clarity, as damaged mirrors constitute a defect that could fail a future test. Finally, given the vehicle's low annual mileage and long stationary periods, a thorough check of all tyres for perishing and cracking, brake components for seizure, and fuel system for contamination is strongly advisable.