2005 Daihatsu Charade 1.0L Petrol · AP55 FOJ

The vehicle presents a concerning trend of recurring mechanical advisories that have remained unaddressed for several years. While the most recent test on 5 January 2026 at 63,661 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged the exact same set of issues seen in 2025 and 2023. Specifically, the rear beam axle bushes and both front suspension wishbone rear bushes are listed as deteriorating. The offside rear fog lamp lens remains broken, and the front brakes continue to drag slightly. This pattern suggests a reactive approach to maintenance where only critical failures are rectified to secure a pass, rather than proactive replacement of worn components. The mileage profile indicates very light usage for a 21-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,031 miles per year. The recorded distance increased from 57,273 miles in December 2022 to 61,690 miles in January 2025, and finally to 63,661 miles in January 2026. While low mileage often implies less drivetrain wear, the long intervals between tests and the low annual distance suggest the car may spend significant time stationary. This can lead to the degradation of rubber components like suspension bushes and can cause brake calipers to seize or drag, which aligns with the persistent advisory regarding the front brakes. A prospective buyer must prioritize a physical inspection of the suspension system. The repeated advisories for deteriorating rear beam axle bushes and wishbone bushes indicate that these components are nearing the end of their service life and will likely require replacement soon to maintain handling integrity. The persistent report of dragging front brakes warrants a close examination of the calipers and sliding pins to ensure the issue is not progressing toward a full seizure. The exhaust system also requires scrutiny. The vehicle failed on 12 December 2023 due to an exhaust Lambda reading outside specified limits. Although the vehicle passed subsequent tests, the underlying cause of the incorrect emissions should be verified to ensure the catalytic converter or oxygen sensor is functioning correctly. Finally, the broken fog lamp lens is a minor cosmetic and lighting issue, but the overall history points to a vehicle that has seen minimal mechanical upkeep despite its low mileage.