2016 Suzuki Baleno 1.0L Petrol · VN16 CZZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 May 2026 returned a PASS, though it was preceded just one day earlier by a FAIL on 11 May 2026 for an offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover that was no longer preventing the ingress of dirt, classified as a Major defect. The dust cover issue was quickly remedied and the vehicle returned the following day to pass. Several advisories remain on record from this test, including worn, pitted, and scored front brake discs, a perished nearside rear tyre, a corroded offside front coil spring, and corrosion on the rear axle. The trend across the recent test history is one of progressive decline rather than stability. In 2024 both front lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers were flagged as severely deteriorated as Minor items, and by 2026 the offside cover had deteriorated to the point of failing. Coil spring corrosion has expanded across both axles, with advisories recorded at all four spring locations during 2025 and the offside front again in 2026. This pattern indicates that corrosion-related deterioration is advancing and is likely to require attention to the suspension and braking components in the near future. The recorded mileage of 101,403 miles over a ten-year life equates to an annual average of approximately 10,140 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no apparent extended gaps in use, and the mileage progression between tests suggests fairly consistent running. While the annual figure is moderate rather than high, the vehicle has nonetheless accumulated sufficient mileage to wear through consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and discs, and the suspension components are clearly subject to wear. The MOT history shows advisories on tyres at close to the legal limit in mid-2025 and a perished rear tyre by 2026, which is consistent with the calendar age of the rubber as well as the mileage covered. Braking components similarly show progressive wear, and the pitted and scored front discs noted in the latest test reflect normal service wear at this mileage. For a prospective buyer, several recurring concerns warrant close physical inspection. The coil spring corrosion advisories across all four corners indicate that the spring steel is oxidising, which on a test drive could manifest as a crashy ride over uneven surfaces, increased body roll through corners, or visible sagging of the vehicle at rest. If the corrosion is advanced enough, the springs can fracture, so a careful look beneath the car for any broken coils or uneven ride height is worthwhile. The 2024 Minor and 2026 Major advisories on the lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers suggest the rubber boots have perished, allowing dirt and moisture into the joint. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front end over speed humps, during sharp direction changes, or when braking heavily, and check for uneven front tyre wear which often accompanies worn ball joints. The rear axle corrosion advisory should also be examined with the vehicle raised if possible, as prolonged surface corrosion can eventually affect structural integrity and mounting points for the rear suspension. The braking system requires particular attention. The front brake discs have been recorded as pitted and scored, which can produce vibration or shudder through the steering wheel under heavy braking, and a more pronounced pedal pulse. Inspect the discs visually for an obvious lip on the outer edge, which indicates the discs are nearing their minimum thickness, and check for binding calipers by ensuring the wheels rotate freely by hand when cold. With the vehicle now ten years old and over 100,000 miles, time-based servicing should be verified independently of the MOT record. Check that the coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox or transmission fluid have been changed at their manufacturer-recommended intervals, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades over time regardless of mileage. Inspect the 12 volt battery for its age stamp, as a ten-year-old original battery is well beyond its service life. Finally, confirm the timing chain or belt service interval has been observed according to the manufacturer schedule, as neglect of this on a high-mileage vehicle can result in catastrophic engine damage.