2002 Suzuki Wagon-R+ 1.3L Petrol · DV52 VHX

The most recent MOT test on December 1, 2025, confirms the vehicle passed without any recorded defects, though it was previously failed on November 17, 2025, for an unspecified reason—likely a minor administrative or procedural oversight rather than a mechanical fault, given the absence of defect entries. The pattern over the past two years shows stability, with no recurring technical issues flagged in either the 2024 or 2023 tests, despite two back-to-back failures in November 2023. This suggests the vehicle has not experienced persistent mechanical problems, though the repeated failures in late 2023 and late 2025 warrant scrutiny of whether the tester’s criteria were inconsistent or if the vehicle was simply on the cusp of passing in those instances. The recorded mileage of 70,171 miles at the most recent test reflects unusually low annual usage for a vehicle of this age—approximately 2,924 miles per year over the past decade. This low mileage could indicate prolonged periods of non-use or storage, which may have contributed to minor wear such as dry-rotted seals, degraded fluids, or dormant corrosion. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests (a full year without a test) is also notable, as it suggests either a lapse in MOT compliance or extended off-road storage during that period. While low mileage generally correlates with reduced wear on high-stress components like brakes and suspension, it does not preclude issues such as fluid degradation or rust development in areas exposed to moisture. Given the lack of specific defect entries, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components commonly overlooked in low-mileage vehicles: suspension integrity, particularly the condition of bushes and coil springs for perished rubber or corrosion; rear brake binding or excessive wear, as hinted by the 2025 failure; and structural underbody corrosion, especially around wheel arches and sills, which can develop even with minimal movement. The absence of advisories in any test also means there is no prior indication of pending failures, but a thorough check of fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant) and hoses is essential, as stagnation can lead to leaks or system failures. The engine bay should be examined for oil leaks or degraded belts, while the exhaust system warrants inspection for rust-through, particularly at joints and beneath the vehicle. Given the vehicle’s age, tyre tread depth and uniformity should be verified, as uneven wear could signal alignment or suspension issues.