2007 Suzuki SX4 1.6L Petrol · CX57 XRR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 29 July 2025, was passed but returned several advisories concerning the nearside rear shock absorber oil mist, front brake disc condition, and wear on the off‑side front lower suspension arm pin or bush. Over the last two‑year span the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with a major failure in July 2025 for a malfunctioning engine MIL, headlamp aim and a non‑functional rear fog lamp, and a failure in July 2024 for an ineffective windscreen wiper. Although the latest test succeeded, the pattern shows a gradual accumulation of wear‑related advisories and occasional electrical or safety failures, indicating a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to several ageing components. At 120,143 miles for a 2007 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,300 miles, which sits within normal UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The recorded mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme low use that might have led to component seizing, nor does it reveal any sudden high‑mileage spikes that would accelerate wear beyond what is typical for a 19‑year‑old front‑wheel‑drive hatchback. Consequently, consumables such as brake discs, pads, suspension bushes and shock absorbers are expected to be approaching the end of their service lives, while the drivetrain and engine have endured a moderate mileage load. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front braking system; the repeated advisories about thin pads and a disc that is worn, pitted and scored point to an imminent need for disc replacement and fresh pads, especially if any pulsation, shudder or increased stopping distances are felt under braking. The nearside rear shock absorber showing light oil mist suggests internal seal wear and could lead to reduced damping and rear‑wheel hop, so a visual inspection for oil on the shock body and a test‑drive check for excessive bounce after a bump are advisable. The off‑side front lower suspension arm pin or bush, noted as worn, may produce a clunk or vague steering feel when negotiating uneven surfaces, and should be examined for play and possible corrosion. The earlier electrical failures – headlamp aim and rear fog lamp – should be verified as corrected, with a functional headlamp alignment check and a working fog lamp before purchase. Finally, the windscreen wiper failure recorded in 2024, although now passed, warrants a quick test of wipe effectiveness and blade condition to avoid compromised visibility in rain. Beyond the specific MOT items, the vehicle’s age calls for a thorough inspection of age‑related issues. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that can arise from prolonged storage, and tread depth must meet the legal minimum. The 12‑volt battery, likely over a decade old, should be load‑tested to confirm it can sustain a cold‑crank, and the terminals inspected for corrosion. Since the car has spent many years in service, check for any signs of rust on the chassis, wheel arches and under‑body, particularly around the corroded coil springs noted in 2024. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – should be inspected for colour, level and any particulate contamination, with a recommendation that a full service, including oil and filter change, coolant flush and brake fluid replacement, be performed if the service book does not show recent calendar‑based maintenance. A comprehensive visual and road test covering these points will give the buyer a clear picture of the remaining life and any imminent outlay required to keep the SX4 roadworthy.