2005 Daihatsu Terios 1.3L Petrol · DX05 AEU

Chronic rubber perishing and emerging suspension wear define the mechanical record of this vehicle, which passed its latest MOT on 26 August 2026. There is a persistent pattern of tyre cracking and perishing appearing across multiple years, alongside a developing issue with the nearside front shock absorber and recent wear to the rear upper suspension arm bushes. While the vehicle has maintained a general trend of passing, the recurrence of these advisories suggests a gradual decline in the condition of the chassis components. The recorded mileage of 30,558 miles is exceptionally low for a twenty-one-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,455 miles per year. This usage pattern is consistent with the repeated MOT advisories regarding tyre perishing and cracking, as rubber components often degrade due to age and lack of use rather than tread wear. Such low annual accumulation indicates the vehicle has spent significant periods stationary, which typically accelerates the deterioration of rubber seals, bushes, and tyre compounds. A test drive should focus heavily on the chassis and ride quality. Listen for knocks or clunks from the rear when traversing uneven surfaces, which would indicate the progression of the worn rear upper suspension arm bushes. The nearside front shock absorber has been flagged for oil misting and reduced damping since 2025; feel for excessive bouncing or a lack of stability over bumps on the nearside front corner. Attention must be paid to the tyres, as cracking and perishing have been noted on both front and rear sets since 2023, with the offside rear currently recorded as worn close to the legal limit. Additionally, the August 2025 failure regarding exhaust lambda readings indicates a previous issue with the emissions system. Observe the engine for any instability during idling or hesitation under acceleration, which could indicate lingering issues with the oxygen sensor or exhaust system.