2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0L Petrol · DS02 ASO

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 2026‑04‑02 at 124,589 miles, yet the test recorded a series of advisories that point to a deteriorating maintenance trend. In the April 2026 test the rear brake pipe was noted as corroded and covered in grease, the high‑level stop lamp was non‑functional, and oil leakage was logged. Structural corrosion appeared on all four chassis mounts, while the rear suspension arm pin/bush showed wear and both rear shock absorbers exhibited slightly worn bushes. These issues have been present in earlier tests: the rear brake pipe corrosion first appeared in 2024 and persisted through 2025, and chassis corrosion was already flagged in 2023. The oil leak is a new fault, and the suspension wear has progressed from a minor advisory in 2025 to a more pronounced condition in 2026, indicating that the vehicle’s condition is not improving. Mileage accumulation over the vehicle’s 24‑year life totals 124,589 miles, averaging roughly 5,200 miles per year—a low figure for its age. The recorded mileage steps show a consistent but modest increase: from 106,075 miles in April 2022 to 111,853 miles in April 2023 (+5,778), to 117,508 miles in April 2024 (+5,655), to 121,522 miles in March 2025 (+3,014), and finally to 124,589 miles in April 2026 (+3,067). The slowing mileage growth in the last two years suggests reduced usage, and the MOT records remain fairly complete with no significant gaps. A prospective buyer should inspect the rear brake pipe for corrosion and any grease contamination, verify that the high‑level stop lamp operates correctly, and examine the chassis mounts for rust within 30 cm of each fitting. The rear suspension arm pin and bush should be checked for excessive play, and the rear shock absorber bushes inspected for wear. An oil leak source must be identified and repaired, and the front and rear brake hoses examined for ferrule corrosion. Tyre condition, though not recently flagged, should be reviewed for cracking, and the exhaust system inspected for leaks. Finally, the CV joint boots should be inspected for splits, as previous failures indicate potential degradation of these components.