2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser 4.0L Petrol · FJ03 ACE

The latest MOT test for this Toyota FJ Cruiser resulted in a pass on 11 November 2025 with no defects recorded. Evaluating the recent maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of reactive maintenance where significant faults are identified and subsequently rectified to achieve a pass. The history reveals a series of major failures, including ABS and electronic stability control faults in 2024 and a binding brake issue in late 2025. While the most recent result is clean, the intermittent nature of these failures suggests that the vehicle requires diligent monitoring of its electronic safety systems and braking components to ensure ongoing roadworthiness. With 80,863 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,776 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average, indicating light usage. While this low mileage suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, it also carries the risk of age-related degradation caused by long periods of inactivity. Vehicles with low annual mileage are more prone to issues such as tyre perishing, fluid breakdown, and the seizure of components like brake calipers or suspension joints due to lack of regular movement and environmental exposure. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay close attention to the braking and suspension systems. Given the recent failure regarding a binding offside front brake, listen for any scraping or grinding noises and check for any pulling to one side during deceleration. The previous failure of the anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers indicates that suspension components may be susceptible to wear; listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces. Furthermore, because of the previous ABS and electronic stability control faults, ensure that no warning lamps illuminate on the dashboard during operation and that the vehicle tracks straight under braking. Due to the low usage profile, a physical inspection of age-related wear is vital. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber can degrade even if the tread remains deep. Check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting and ensure the calipers do not feel overly hot after a short drive, which would indicate binding. It is also essential to verify the service history for time-based fluid changes, such as brake fluid and coolant, which are critical for vehicles that spend time standing. Finally, inspect the underside for any signs of corrosion or fluid leaks from seals that may have dried out due to infrequent use.