2006 Toyota Hilux 2.5L Diesel · FD06 VGP

The most recent MOT, dated 22 November 2024, was passed but flagged a series of advisories covering tyre tread, front brake‑pad thickness and multiple corrosion points on the rear vehicle structure, brake pipe and suspension mounting areas. This follows a failure only a few weeks earlier (1 November 2024) that recorded a major rear‑exhaust leak, a missing tailpipe and dangerous corrosion of front and rear suspension mounting points. The pattern shows a clear deterioration in condition, moving from earlier passes with isolated corrosion advisories to now a failed test with safety‑critical structural and exhaust defects, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory is currently worsening. At 137,927 miles the Hilux averages roughly 6,900 miles per year over its twenty‑year life. This is modest for a work‑oriented pickup and suggests periods of low utilisation or extended storage. While the mileage is not excessive, the relatively low annual usage can exacerbate age‑related decay such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation and corrosion on static components, especially where the vehicle may have been standing for long intervals. The mileage alone does not imply heavy wear, but combined with the recent corrosion findings it points to a need for thorough age‑related inspections. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the corrosion‑affected suspension mounting areas noted in the MOT reports. Inspect the subframe, control‑arm bushes and mounting brackets for rust, pitting or loss of material, especially around the front wheel arches, the rear centre and near the fuel tank. On a test drive listen for clunking or excessive play when applying steering inputs or traversing bumps, and feel for any looseness in the steering column. The rear‑exhaust leak and missing tailpipe must be remedied; check for black soot around the exhaust manifold, excessive noise and a possible drop in fuel efficiency. Front brake pads are reported as thin, and brake pipes show corrosion and grease build‑up, so verify pad thickness, look for any fluid seepage at the pipe joints and test the brake pedal for a firm, consistent feel without sponginess or pulsation. Tyres should be examined for tread depth, sidewall cracking and uneven wear that may stem from suspension degradation. Given the vehicle’s age, also examine the condition of the 12 V battery (terminal corrosion, cranking performance), the integrity of the seat‑belt anchorage points that have shown corrosion, and the headlamp alignment which previously failed. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals, as time‑based degradation can occur even with low mileage. A full under‑carriage inspection for rust on the chassis rails, fuel tank and rear suspension components is advisable, and a comprehensive service covering replacement of the rear exhaust system, corrosion‑affected suspension mounts, brake pipes and pads, as well as a fresh set of tyres, will be essential to restore the Hilux to a safe and reliable condition before purchase.