2008 Daihatsu Sirion 1.3L Petrol · AV08 AAJ

A developing mechanical theme is beginning to emerge around the rear suspension of this 2008 Daihatsu Sirion, despite the vehicle maintaining a continuous run of MOT passes over the last five recorded tests. The offside rear shock absorber light oil misting advisory has now appeared at two consecutive tests in February 2025 and February 2026, indicating that this is not an isolated observation but rather an ongoing deterioration of the damper seal. Alongside this, the February 2026 test introduced a slight play advisory on the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, a component that typically degrades from bushing wear or stud fatigue. While neither item currently constitutes a failure, the recurrence of the shock absorber advisory and the introduction of a new front suspension defect point toward a chassis that is beginning to display its age, even though the most recent test on 26 February 2026 was passed. The recorded mileage of 62,340 miles across an 18 year service life equates to an average accumulation of roughly 3,463 miles per year, which is notably low and consistent with a car that has seen limited daily use, possibly including periods off the road. This pattern of light usage can be a double-edged sword mechanically, as components such as brake discs, callipers, and flexible brake hoses can suffer from corrosion when infrequently exercised, and rubber elements like suspension bushes can harden or perish with age regardless of mileage. The current odometer reading suggests the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain have not been subjected to high mechanical stress, but the gradual surfacing of suspension-related advisories over recent tests is more attributable to age and material degradation than to wear from sustained use. For a prospective buyer, the immediate focus on inspection should be the condition of the rear suspension, specifically the shock absorbers. Given the persistent advisory for oil misting on the offside rear unit, it is advisable to physically inspect the shock body for any wet residue, heavier oil staining, or signs of corrosion on the damper shaft, and to bounce each rear corner by hand to feel for any lack of damping resistance that would suggest the unit is past serviceable life. The nearside rear shock should be checked in the same manner, as it may be following a similar degradation curve. The brake system also warrants close attention given the low annual mileage; the rear drums should be examined for surface corrosion and the handbrake mechanism tested for binding, as cables and pivot points can seize when rarely operated. Similarly, flexible brake hoses should be inspected for perishing, cracking, or bulging under pressure, as these items can deteriorate with age independent of mileage. With regard to the newly flagged nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, this component is best evaluated with the vehicle raised so that the wheel can be manipulated to detect any rotational play at the joint. On a test drive, particular notice should be taken of any clonking or knocking noises transmitted through the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, any vagueness or looseness in the steering response around the straight-ahead position, and any creaking when traversing speed bumps or driveway entrances. A brake pedal test should be performed to ensure firm resistance without sponginess, and a standing start with full steering lock applied in both directions should be carried out to identify any binding or rubbing noises from the front suspension geometry. The exhaust system should also be examined for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, as a vehicle of this age is approaching a stage where original system integrity can no longer be assumed.