2014 Suzuki Splash 1.2L Petrol · DA14 HBN

This Suzuki Splash demonstrates a concerning trend of recurring mechanical issues, with the most recent November 2025 failure marking the second consecutive MOT failure in less than a year. The November 2025 test at 97,006 miles revealed critical failures in both rear brake pipes (corrosion and contamination) and front anti-roll bar ball joints (excessive wear and seal failure), while the December 2024 test at 92,957 miles had already flagged the same corroded rear brake pipe. The December 2023 test at 90,951 miles noted slight play in the near-side front anti-roll bar ball joint, suggesting these components were already compromised long before the latest failures. The December 2022 test at 88,705 miles introduced a new concern with fluctuating rear brake performance, indicating potential brake system instability. The November 2025 pass at 97,006 miles—just three days after the failure—suggests either a rushed or incomplete repair, as no defects were recorded despite the critical issues identified earlier in the month. The mileage progression of approximately 8,084 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the irregular spacing between tests raises questions. The largest gap is between the December 2022 and December 2023 tests, covering 2,246 miles in 12 months, while the most recent interval between failures and passes in November 2025 spans just three days—a pattern that undermines confidence in consistent maintenance. The absence of earlier MOT records before December 2022 prevents full historical context, but the consistent failures in brake pipes and anti-roll bar components over three consecutive tests indicate either neglect or repeated poor repairs. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the brake system, particularly the rear brake pipes and calipers, as corrosion and contamination pose a direct risk to braking efficiency. The anti-roll bar ball joints—both front and rear—require close examination for excessive wear, dust cover integrity, and proper lubrication, as these failures recurred across multiple tests. Suspension bushes and coil springs should also be assessed for deterioration, given their proximity to the anti-roll bar linkages. Structural corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and subframe, warrants inspection, as brake pipe failures often correlate with broader rust issues. The fluctuating rear brake performance noted in 2022 suggests potential warped discs or binding calipers, which could exacerbate uneven wear. Given the history, independent verification of recent repairs—particularly those claimed to have resolved the November 2025 failures—is essential.