2013 Isuzu D-MAX Utah Vision D/C TD 2.5L Diesel · PJ13 HYK

The latest DVSA MOT test dated 29 May 2026 resulted in a pass, though it should be noted that this pass came only three days after a prior failure on 26 May 2026 where both headlamp lenses were deemed seriously defective and both headlamps were aimed too high. The immediate rectification of these major defects and subsequent retest indicates the current owner has addressed the lighting issues, but a prospective buyer should verify the headlamp lens condition, beam pattern, and alignment are properly resolved, as poorly aimed headlamps can cause oncoming glare and MOT failure. Beyond the lighting issue, the current pass carries several advisories of genuine mechanical concern, including an offside rear leaf spring showing splaying, a nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint with slight play, a corroding tow bar, an overfilled or diluted oil condition, and a damaged windscreen. Considering the 2022 failure for an excessively worn nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint, the recurrence of ball joint play on the same corner in 2026 suggests the component was either not replaced or a reconditioned arm has begun to wear again, which is a noteworthy trend. The recorded mileage of 73,468 miles over roughly thirteen years equates to approximately 5,651 miles annually, which is notably low for a working pickup truck of this type and age. The MOT history confirms long stationary periods between tests, with intervals stretching well beyond the standard twelve months, and the mileage gap between November 2024 and May 2026 suggests very limited recent use. For a dual-cab utility vehicle of this specification, low annual mileage is atypical and may indicate light private use rather than the heavier commercial load carrying originally intended. However, prolonged standing periods bring their own mechanical consequences, including brake disc corrosion and potential caliper binding, deterioration of rubber components such as tyres and bushes through dry rot rather than wear, fluid degradation from lack of circulation, and 12V battery sulphation. The advisory for splaying rear leaf springs is particularly consistent with a vehicle that has either carried heavy loads intermittently, allowing the springs to take a set, or has stood unloaded for extended periods allowing corrosion and loss of tension. Given the recurring suspension and ball joint advisories across multiple test cycles, a thorough physical inspection is essential before purchase. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the nearside, and pay attention to any wandering or lack of precision in the steering, as worn ball joints and deteriorating bushes typically produce imprecise handling and uneven tyre wear patterns. Inspect the front tyres closely for inner-edge wear which would confirm a worn suspension component, and check the rear leaf springs for cracked, sagging, or visibly displaced leaves that could compromise load carrying capacity and ride stability. All four tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing given the vehicle's age and low usage, as rubber degrades with calendar age regardless of tread depth. The tow bar corrosion should be assessed for structural integrity if a trailer is to be towed, and the overfilled or diluted oil condition requires immediate investigation, as incorrect oil level can indicate poor maintenance practice, a possible head gasket concern, or dilution from short journeys preventing proper combustion of fuel in the oil. Additional age-related checks should include a full brake inspection with the wheels removed to assess brake disc corrosion, pad material remaining, and whether the caliper sliders are free to move, as standing vehicles frequently suffer from seized calipers leading to uneven braking or pulling to one side. The 12V battery should be load tested, as a thirteen-year-old original unit or one that has stood discharged is likely at end of service life. Examine all underbody components, particularly the chassis rails, crossmembers, and suspension mounting points, for any structural corrosion, which is a known concern on commercial-derived vehicles of this vintage, especially those that may have seen rural or off-road use. Verify the service book stamps and timing belt replacement history, as the 2.5-litre diesel engine fitted to this Isuzu D-Max requires periodic timing belt changes at manufacturer-specified intervals, and absence of evidence may indicate overdue major service work. Finally, check coolant and brake fluid condition by their colour and clarity, as both fluids degrade with age and a neglected fluid service history can lead to cooling system corrosion or compromised braking performance independent of the MOT record.