2009 Suzuki Splash 1.2L Petrol · DA09 VAV

This 2009 Suzuki Splash presents a notably clean DVSA record, with four consecutive passes and no advisories or defects recorded at any point across the 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 tests, the most recent being a pass on 11 December 2025. The absence of any recurring component flags suggests that the braking system, suspension components, exhaust, and structural elements have remained within MOT pass tolerances without any borderline items being noted by testers. While a clean MOT record is encouraging, it is worth noting that the DVSA test is a roadworthiness check and does not cover engine condition, clutch wear, or non-tested items such as the cambelt or interior electrical functions. The lack of any corrosion advisories over four consecutive years is a positive structural indicator for a seventeen-year-old vehicle, as Splash models of this era are generally robust but can develop rust on underbody seams and suspension mounting points. With 114,369 miles recorded over seventeen years, this Suzuki has covered an average of approximately 6,728 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of its age and class. The mileage progression between tests appears steady and consistent, suggesting the car has been in regular use rather than subjected to either long periods of standing or unusually high-mileage driving. That said, even moderate annual mileage over a seventeen-year span places significant cumulative wear on wear-dependent components, and buyers should not interpret the clean MOT history as evidence of low overall wear. The mileage bracket means that original engine internals, clutch assembly, and major drivetrain components have already been subjected to substantial working life, regardless of how smoothly the car has passed its annual inspections. Given the complete absence of specific advisories or component defects in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should focus their pre-purchase inspection on the wear items that are commonly flagged on high-mileage superminis of this generation but which may not yet have crossed the MOT pass/fail threshold. On a test drive, listen carefully for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over bumps or speed humps, which can indicate worn lower wishbone bushes, drop links, or top mounts. Steering should feel precise without excess play or vibration, and any knocking when turning the wheel at standstill could suggest worn tie rod ends or steering rack deterioration. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive, and any judder under braking may point to warped front discs, particularly given the vehicle's age and mileage. Given the car's seventeen years of service, particular attention should also be paid to potential oil leaks from the cam cover gasket or sump, and any signs of blue exhaust smoke on start-up or under load that could indicate piston ring or valve seal wear. Check the underside of the engine bay and around the oil filler cap for any signs of sludge or emulsion, which would suggest water contamination or neglected oil changes. The condition of the coolant hoses, radiator, and auxiliary drive belts should be visually inspected for perishing, as these components degrade with age regardless of mileage. On cold start, listen for any timing chain rattle from the engine, which on the Splash's 1.2-litre petrol unit can indicate chain stretch if the original timing chain has not been replaced. Finally, verify that the clutch engages smoothly and without slipping under hard acceleration in fourth or fifth gear, as clutch replacement on a seventeen-year-old car with over 114,000 miles is an inevitable maintenance item that could be imminent.