2005 Daihatsu Extol 1.3L Petrol · AO55 CME

The most recent MOT test dated 1 September 2026 resulted in a pass, although several advisories and minor defects were recorded. The vehicle cleared its earlier retest after addressing the major engine management fault that caused the failure on 31 July 2026, where the engine MIL was inoperative or indicating a malfunction. Comparing the most recent pass against the November 2024 pass, the overall maintenance trend shows deterioration rather than improvement. The advisory items at the 2026 test include an offside rear hub seal leak, and both nearside and offside integral body structures are noted as corroded though not compromising rigidity. The recurring appearance of corrosion advisories across multiple test dates, alongside increasingly specific mentions of brake binding, brake pipe corrosion, and sill corrosion, suggests an accumulating wear pattern typical of an ageing vehicle rather than a one-off rectification. With a recorded mileage of 117,152 miles over approximately 21 years, this Daihatsu Extel has covered an average of around 5,579 miles annually, which is notably low for its age. This figure suggests the vehicle has either been used very lightly or has experienced extended periods of standing, both of which carry distinct mechanical consequences. Prolonged standing can lead to corrosion of brake discs, binding brake calipers, deterioration of rubber components such as bushes, hoses, and drive belts, and 12V battery degradation. Light general usage may also allow engine oil and coolant to lose their protective properties through calendar-based degradation rather than mileage-based servicing intervals, meaning fluid condition should be verified independently of the odometer reading. Given the recurring advisories for brake binding, corrosion on brake pipes across the axle, and front-to-rear pipe corrosion, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the braking system during a test drive. Listen for scraping, grinding, or squealing noises from the front offside caliper area, which has been flagged repeatedly for slight binding, and feel for any pulling to one side or uneven pedal response. Inspect the brake discs for visible lipping, pitting, or severe corrosion, and check the brake pipes along the underside for surface rust, flaking, or active weeping. The offside rear hub seal leak recorded in September 2026 warrants close inspection of the rear wheel area for grease contamination on the inner rim and excessive play in the wheel bearing, which may manifest as a humming noise that rises with speed. Regarding the bodywork and structural advisories, the recorded corrosion to both front steps, sills, inner sills, suspension components, and integral body structures is a serious concern for a 21-year-old vehicle, even where structural rigidity is currently deemed adequate. Physically inspect the sill areas, jacking points, and suspension mounting locations for perforation, flaking rust, or evidence of previous welding or underseal application. Verify that the wiper blades and registration plate lamp have been replaced, and check the windscreen for any chips or cracks that could escalate. Beyond the MOT record, given the low annual mileage, confirm the age and condition of all tyres including the spare, which has been flagged as flat on previous tests, examine sidewalls for perishing or cracking from age, test the 12V battery under load, and request documentary evidence of recent timing belt, coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil replacements, as calendar-based servicing is critical for a low-mileage vehicle of this vintage.