2016 Toyota Hilux 2.4L Diesel · EX66 NEF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 November 2025, was a pass but it was accompanied by several advisories concerning the near‑side front coil spring, the condition of the front and rear tyres and a nail lodged in the off‑side rear tyre. This follows a failure recorded the previous day, which highlighted worn front brake pads, a fault with the engine management indicator, a malfunctioning electronic stability control lamp and dangerously low tread on both front tyres. The shift from a failure to a pass suggests that at least some of the critical faults were remedied before the second test, yet the persistence of multiple advisories indicates that the vehicle’s condition is still borderline and that further remedial work is required to bring it to a fully robust state. With just 5,989 miles logged over a ten‑year life, the Hilux averages roughly 600 miles per annum – a usage pattern that is exceptionally low for a pickup of this age. Such limited mileage often points to long periods of inactivity rather than gentle, regular driving. While low mileage reduces wear on moving parts such as the engine, transmission and suspension, it also means that components susceptible to calendar ageing – tyre rubber, seals, hoses and the battery – may have deteriorated despite the low distance covered. Prolonged standing can also encourage rust formation on the chassis and underbody, especially in a vehicle that may have been stored in a damp environment. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the tyre and brake assemblies. The front tyres were recorded as dangerously under‑tread just a year ago and now sit only “close to the legal limit”; any uneven wear, cracking or bulging of the sidewalls should be inspected, and the tread depth measured with a gauge to confirm it exceeds 1.6 mm on all four wheels. The presence of a nail in the off‑side rear tyre warrants a thorough visual check for punctures, internal damage and correct repair. The front brake pads were previously worn to the wear‑indicator, so the pads, discs and calipers must be examined for remaining thickness, scoring or glazing, and the pedal feel should be tested for any sponginess or pulsation that could indicate warped discs or sticking calipers. Additionally, verify that the engine management light and ESC warning lamp are now extinguished; a scan of the ECU for stored fault codes will confirm whether the underlying electronic faults have been rectified. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, time‑based inspections are essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking or hardening, as rubber can degrade after six years even without significant wear. Check the 12‑volt battery for charge hold and electrolyte condition, or consider a load test, because prolonged storage often leads to sulfation and reduced capacity. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, colour and any signs of contamination; fluids typically require replacement every 12–24 months regardless of mileage. Look for corrosion on suspension bushes, control arm joints and under‑body panels, and ensure that the coil spring identified as corroded is still structurally sound. A comprehensive visual survey of the service book, any receipts for recent component replacements, and a careful road test listening for clunks, rattles or unusual vibrations will give a clearer picture of whether the Hilux has been maintained appropriately despite its limited use.