2016 Toyota FJ Cruiser 4.0L Petrol · 666 C

The vehicle presents a highly favourable MOT history, having secured clean passes in both 2023 and 2024 with no recorded defects or advisories. This indicates a stable and well-maintained mechanical state, suggesting that the vehicle has been subjected to consistent oversight rather than neglect. The absence of any recurring failure points or minor warnings implies that the essential safety systems, including the braking, lighting, and suspension components, have remained within the legal and operational tolerances required for roadworthiness over the last two years. With a recorded mileage of 55,623 miles over a decade of service, the vehicle exhibits an average annual usage of approximately 5,500 miles. This is significantly lower than the national average for a vehicle of this type, which often points to a life of light, intermittent use. While this low mileage is generally positive for powertrain longevity, it necessitates a specific focus on time-based degradation. Components such as rubber seals, hoses, and suspension bushes can perish or harden regardless of distance covered, and fluids may have reached the end of their recommended calendar-based service intervals even if the mileage threshold has not been met. During your physical inspection, pay close attention to the tyres and the braking system. Vehicles that sit for extended periods are prone to tyre sidewall perishing, which manifests as fine cracking or crazing; check the date codes on the tyres to ensure they are not excessively old. Furthermore, inspect the brake discs for signs of surface corrosion or pitting, which often occurs when a vehicle is left stationary in damp conditions. On your test drive, listen for any grinding noises or uneven braking performance that might indicate binding calipers or seized slider pins, as these are common symptoms of a vehicle that has not been driven frequently enough to keep the braking hardware free and lubricated. Beyond the immediate mechanical checks, verify the service history to ensure that critical time-dependent maintenance has been performed. Even with low mileage, the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid should have been replaced periodically according to the manufacturer schedule. Check the 12V battery for signs of age-related fatigue, as infrequent use can lead to premature failure of the battery cells. Finally, perform a thorough visual inspection of the underside for any signs of structural corrosion or fluid weeping from the drivetrain, as the FJ Cruiser is a robust platform that nonetheless requires regular protection against the elements to maintain its long-term integrity.