2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0L Diesel · WL05 AKP

The most recent recorded test, on 29 November 2023 at 156,370 miles, resulted in a failure, yet no specific defects appear on the record. That is an anomaly in DVSA data, since a failure normally cites clear reasons. What matters more is what followed. No retest or subsequent pass appears after that date, meaning the Grand Vitara has been without a valid MOT since late November 2024 at the latest, and in practice it has sat untested for nearly three years from today. The earlier pattern was stable. A failure on 14 December 2022 at 153,570 miles was rectified within two days, and the car passed on 16 December 2022 at 153,572 miles. The December 2021 pass at 150,245 miles was also clean. Mileage accumulation has been light in recent years. Between December 2021 and November 2023, roughly two years, the car covered about 6,100 miles, or around 3,000 miles annually, against the age-typical figure of about 7,400 miles per year. Over its full 21-year life, 156,370 miles is entirely normal for the age. Lighter recent use does not translate into a better condition verdict. An older 4x4 that alternates between low mileage and long stationary periods can suffer more from standing than from wear, particularly in its brake and suspension components. The absence of recorded defects across every test in this history, including the two failures, leaves the true reason for the 2023 failure unresolved. Treat the vehicle as untested and unproven as of today. A fresh MOT is essential, but a pass alone should not end the inspection. On a 2005 Grand Vitara with 156,000 miles, give careful attention to the underside for structural and chassis corrosion, suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs and calliper operation, and to the condition of the propshaft, drive shafts and differential oil levels. Standing time can cause hidden damage. Tyres may be aged or flat-spotted, while rubber hoses and seals may have perished. Check the service record, particularly whether any oil changes took place during the idle period, before committing to a purchase.