2012 Suzuki Splash 1.2L Petrol · AE08 AAA

The most recent MOT on 10 August 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory that the off‑side front lower suspension arm pin or bush is worn and that a rear suspension bush shows wear. Over the last three years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring suspension‑related advisories and a serious failure in 2025 when both front coil springs fractured. The fact that the car passed the subsequent tests indicates that the faulty springs were replaced, yet the same lower‑arm wear continues to be flagged, suggesting a persistent wear point that has not yet been fully rectified. Overall the maintenance trend is therefore mixed: major failures have been addressed, but there is a lingering, possibly worsening, suspension wear issue that requires close monitoring. At 56 514 miles for a 2012 model the average annual mileage works out at just over 4 000 miles, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, both of which can lead to age‑related degradation despite the modest mileage. The absence of any large mileage jumps indicates there have been no periods of intensive use that would have accelerated wear on the drivetrain or braking system, but the low‑use profile also raises the likelihood of rubber components hardening, battery capacity loss, and corrosion developing in areas that sit idle for long periods. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension assembly. Inspect the lower arm bushings and the rear bush for any play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; any audible clunk or a feeling of looseness when braking or negotiating bumps would confirm the advisory’s relevance. Verify that the coil springs replaced after the 2025 failure are still in good condition and that the mounting points are free of corrosion. On a test drive listen for rattles from the front corners, watch for uneven tyre wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn bushings, and feel for any shudder or pull under braking that might be linked to the previously noted upper brake pipe corrosion or the hand‑brake adjustment warning. A visual check of the brake pipe for rust and the condition of the surrounding greasing material is advisable, as well as confirming that the hand‑brake engages firmly without excessive travel. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or perishing, especially if the tyres are original to the car. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, its cranking amperage, as batteries can lose capacity after long periods of inactivity. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, colour and any signs of contamination; fluids should be changed on a calendar basis even when mileage is low. Finally, look for any signs of rust on the wheel arches, sills and under‑carriage, and ensure the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended time‑based maintenance stamps, which will give a clearer picture of how well the vehicle has been cared for despite its limited use.