2013 Iveco Daily 2.3L Diesel · FD62 RWN

The most recent MOT test results for the 2013 IVECO Daily, conducted on 2023-04-19, show a passing outcome despite a history of recurring advisories and one prior failure, indicating that while the vehicle has not yet reached a critical threshold, its condition remains precarious. The pattern of repeated advisories—particularly concerning the front suspension ball joint, rear shock absorbers, and structural corrosion—suggests a trend of persistent but non-dangerous wear and tear rather than outright deterioration. However, the fact that the vehicle failed in 2021 with multiple dangerous defects, including compromised front brake discs, inadequate brake pad thickness, and a failing prop shaft bearing, underscores the need for vigilance. The fact that these critical issues were not addressed before the 2023 MOT highlights either a lapse in maintenance or a failure to prioritise high-risk components, which could escalate into more severe problems if left unchecked. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 246,232 miles over roughly 13 years represents an annual usage rate of around 18,941 miles, which is exceptionally high for a diesel commercial vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and drivetrain components, as well as structural elements such as suspension bushes and seals. The absence of significant mileage gaps—suggesting continuous operational use—further implies that the vehicle has been subjected to heavy, possibly aggressive driving conditions, which can exacerbate mechanical stress. This level of usage is particularly concerning for components like the front suspension ball joints, which are prone to wear and potential failure when subjected to frequent high-load cycles, and the rear shock absorbers, where reduced damping efficiency can lead to compromised ride quality and increased road noise. Given the recurring advisories and past dangerous defects, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection to address the following critical areas. First, visually inspect the front suspension for signs of excessive play in the ball joints, which may indicate wear or misalignment. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven suspension travel or excessive body roll. The rear shock absorbers should be tested for firmness—if they feel spongy or offer inconsistent damping, this could lead to poor handling and premature suspension component failure. The brake system must be scrutinised for signs of corrosion on discs, particularly on the front, where the 2021 MOT noted serious weakening. Inspect brake pads for even wear and listen for grinding or squealing noises, which may signal metal-to-metal contact or insufficient pad thickness. Additionally, verify the parking brake’s efficiency by engaging it while the vehicle is stationary and observing whether it holds firmly without excessive drag or binding. For the structural integrity, examine the cab and chassis for signs of corrosion, particularly around mounting points and near the subframe, as the advisories from 2021 and 2023 indicate ongoing concerns. Look for rust penetration into metal surfaces, which could compromise structural integrity if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s tyres should be checked for sidewall perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to age-related degradation, and ensure tread depth meets legal requirements (minimum 1.6mm). The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as prolonged idling or infrequent use can lead to sulphation or failure. Finally, given the high mileage and the history of fluid-related advisories, consider checking the condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to catastrophic failure if not replaced. If possible, obtain the vehicle’s service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance—such as oil changes, brake servicing, and suspension component replacements—has been recorded. If the buyer is unable to access this, prioritise addressing the front suspension ball joints, rear shock absorbers, and brake system immediately, as these are the most critical areas of concern.