2014 Isuzu D-MAX 2.5L Diesel · CV63 WSY

The defining mechanical theme across this Isuzu D-Max's MOT history is a persistent and worsening front suspension problem. The most recent pass on 20 February 2026 carried three advisories directly linked to the front anti-roll bar system: both pin or bush wear and a slight play in the offside front upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, alongside near-limit wear on both front tyres. This follows a Major failure on 4 February 2025 for an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, with the brake fluid warning lamp illuminated on the same test and a subsequent pass on 7 February 2025 with no defects recorded. Earlier, a 2024 test flagged a severely deteriorated dust cover on that same offside front lower ball joint, confirming a component that has been deteriorating across at least three consecutive tests. Lighting issues have also appeared intermittently, including a 2023 Major failure for direction indicator and rear fog lamp interference and a 2023 advisory for a discoloured rear indicator, with a minor inoperative registration plate lamp noted in 2024. The recorded mileage of 132,730 miles over twelve years equates to an annual average of roughly 11,061 miles, which sits close to the typical band for a vehicle of this age and use. The mileage progression between tests reflects fairly steady annual accumulation rather than any sharp jumps, though there is a noticeable gap with no test recorded between December 2020 and February 2022, which suggests the vehicle may have been off the road or untested for roughly fourteen months. The 2023 test recorded a dangerous tyre tread depth below 1.6mm, a serious safety finding that, when combined with repeated rear and front tyre advisories across 2022, 2023 and 2026, indicates consumable wear consistent with working-load usage rather than any abnormal accumulation rate. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension is the priority inspection area. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front end over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, and feel for any vagueness or rattle through the steering wheel that could indicate worn anti-roll bar links or bushes. With the vehicle raised or on a ramp, the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint should be physically checked for any vertical or horizontal play, as this component has now appeared as deteriorated, excessively worn, and advisories across three tests. Given the 2025 Major failure specifically noted that the ball joint was excessively worn, replacement should be confirmed and the condition of the adjacent arm, bush, and droop link verified. The brake fluid warning lamp and low fluid mark noted in 2025 should also be investigated, as this could point to either a sensor issue or, more concerning, fluid loss through a caliper or wheel cylinder leak that warrants a thorough brake inspection. Secondary checks should target the items flagged across the record. The 2022 advisory for corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease is worth a close inspection, particularly along the underside and around fuel tank and axle lines where corrosion commonly initiates, looking for surface rust, pitting, or any weeping joints. The 2022 advisory for slight front wheel bearing play means both front bearings should be checked for noise when cornering or on a road test, and for any sideways rocking with the wheel jacked up. The 2026 advisories for both front tyres worn close to the legal limit suggest an alignment or geometry issue, so check for uneven shoulder wear across all four tyres and confirm the tracking has been recently set. Finally, verify that all exterior lighting operates correctly, particularly the front direction indicators, rear fog lamp, and registration plate lamps, given the multiple advisories and failures recorded in this area across 2023 and 2024.