2004 Toyota Unknown 3.0L Petrol · BW54 ZKB

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-10-16, but the maintenance trend is worsening. While it passed, the same suspension bush wear appeared on both front and rear arms across multiple tests, and tyre condition deteriorated from a minor cut in 2024 to near-limit tread in 2025. The stop lamp fault persisted across three tests, indicating a recurring electrical or wiring issue that has not been resolved. These are not minor oversights — they reflect a pattern of deferred attention to wear items and electrical systems. The mileage of 91,296 miles over 22 years equates to roughly 4,150 miles annually, which is low for its age and suggests the car has been lightly used or stored for periods. The gap between MOTs is consistent — approximately 12 months — with no evidence of rapid mileage accumulation. The 2023 to 2025 progression shows a steady 2,300-mile increase per year, which aligns with normal usage. The record is clean in terms of test frequency, but the low mileage does not negate the mechanical wear already evident in the suspension and tyres. A buyer should inspect the suspension bushes closely, particularly the front and rear arms, as these have been flagged repeatedly and may now be nearing the point of causing handling issues or excessive noise. The tyres, especially the offside front, are dangerously close to legal limits and should be replaced immediately. The stop lamp fault, while non-critical, should be traced to its root cause — likely a faulty bulb, wiring, or switch — as it affects safety and may recur. Also check for corrosion on the chassis and suspension components, as low mileage doesn’t guarantee rust-free structural integrity, especially on a 2004 model. The vehicle’s mechanical condition is serviceable but not robust. The recurring suspension wear suggests the car may have been driven with compromised handling for some time, and the tyres indicate a lack of proactive maintenance. A buyer should budget for immediate tyre replacement and a full suspension inspection, including bushings, ball joints, and coil springs. The stop lamp issue should be resolved before the next MOT to avoid a failure. Overall, the car is not unsafe, but it is not in optimal condition — it requires careful attention to its worn components to remain roadworthy.