2017 DAF Trucks LF45 4.5L Diesel · EP17 FTT

The most recent MOT test on August 4, 2025, confirms this DAF LF45 remains roadworthy with no defects recorded at 232,958 miles. The consistent pass history since 2023—without advisories or faults—suggests the vehicle has avoided major mechanical failures during its operational life. However, the 2023 failure on May 24 (just two days before its subsequent pass) is anomalous and unexplained, as no defects were logged, leaving the cause unclear. The most recent test is just over a year old, which is acceptable but not ideal for a vehicle of this age and mileage, where more frequent checks on high-wear components would be prudent. The mileage progression indicates aggressive usage, averaging over 25,000 miles annually—a rate far above typical commercial or light-duty truck operation. Between May 2023 and August 2024, the vehicle accumulated 7,086 miles in just under a year, suggesting sustained heavy use. The gap between the 2023 failure and the following pass is negligible (two days), which may imply a retest rather than genuine maintenance. This pattern raises questions about whether the vehicle was consistently monitored or if critical inspections were deferred. Given the lack of recorded defects, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to accelerated wear at this mileage: the suspension system, particularly coil springs and bushes, which may exhibit fatigue or corrosion after 230,000 miles. The braking system warrants scrutiny—binding calipers or uneven wear on discs could have been missed in previous tests, especially if the 2023 failure was procedural rather than diagnostic. Exhaust emissions should also be checked for leaks or catalytic converter degradation, as these are common failure points in diesel trucks. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and underbody, should be examined for corrosion, which can compromise load-bearing capacity. Finally, the drivetrain—gearbox, transfer case, and differential—should be inspected for fluid leaks or unusual noise, as high mileage often accelerates internal wear.