2014 Toyota Hilux 2.5L Diesel · DV64 GZB

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 25 March 2026, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, suggesting that the immediate roadworthiness concerns identified at earlier tests have been resolved prior to this assessment. However, the overall maintenance trend is not consistently stable and warrants careful scrutiny. The vehicle was submitted for test on 23 March 2026 and failed on a major exhaust leak at the rear silencer, only to pass two days later, which indicates that a repair was carried out in extremely short order. Looking further back, the 2024 test produced a particularly concerning set of defects, including dangerous-level wear on both front brake discs, a fractured offside front coil spring, a leaking offside rear shock absorber, and a binding offside front service brake. The 2025 test also recorded multiple majors covering an ABS warning lamp fault, ineffective wiper operation, and inoperative stop lamps. Although the most recent pass is encouraging, the frequency of repeat submissions and the severity of defects recorded in 2024 suggest that this vehicle has undergone a period of compounded component neglect which a buyer must investigate thoroughly. With 54,640 miles recorded over approximately twelve years, this Hilux is averaging around 4,553 miles annually, which is notably low for a working or utility vehicle of this type and considerably below typical figures for diesel pick-ups of this vintage. Low recorded mileage can suggest either genuinely light usage or extended periods of standing, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Long periods of inactivity can lead to corrosion of brake discs, binding of caliper pistons due to pitting, degradation of brake fluid through moisture absorption, and potential issues with the diesel fuel system including water contamination or injector seizure from infrequent running. Conversely, it is also worth satisfying yourself that the mileage recorded is consistent with the vehicle's overall condition, service history stamps, and any dashboard cluster verification, as unusually low figures on commercial-style vehicles occasionally warrant closer inspection. Given the serious brake and suspension defects recorded at the 2024 test, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the front brake discs for scoring, lipping, or renewed surface corrosion, and verify the condition of the offside front coil spring and the offside rear shock absorber for any signs of leakage, sagging, or noise. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clunks or knocks over uneven surfaces which could indicate worn suspension bushes, top mounts, or anti-roll bar links, and pay particular attention to whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which may suggest a sticking caliper. The ABS warning lamp defect from 2025 should be investigated by confirming the lamp extinguishes correctly on ignition and that no dashboard warning remains, as ABS faults on a vehicle of this age frequently relate to failing wheel speed sensors or corroded wiring rather than the ABS modulator itself. The exhaust repair evidenced between the failed and passed tests in March 2026 should be verified by physical examination underneath the vehicle for any signs of fresh welding, temporary repair patches, or blueing of joints which might indicate a short-term fix rather than a proper component replacement. In addition to addressing the historically recorded defects, age- and usage-related checks are essential on a twelve-year-old Hilux with relatively low mileage. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking caused by age rather than tread wear, as tyres older than five or six years can lose integrity even with ample tread remaining; check the DOT date code on the sidewall for confirmation. The 12V battery should be load tested, since low-mileage vehicles often suffer from shortened battery life due to incomplete charging cycles, and the terminals should be inspected for corrosion. All fluid services should be confirmed as up to date including engine oil, gearbox and transfer box oils, differential oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as brake fluid in particular degrades with time and should typically be renewed every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. Underneath the vehicle, inspect the chassis, cross members, and suspension arms for any surface corrosion consistent with the working nature of the vehicle, and verify the presence of a complete service book with stamps matching the recorded mileage.