2018 Ssangyong Rexton 2.2L Diesel · FJ51 AFJ

A solitary rear‑brake pad wear failure in early 2024 is the only blemish on an otherwise spotless MOT record, and the vehicle has since returned to a clean bill of health, passing its most recent test in February 2026 without any recorded defects. The pattern shows a single, isolated issue that was presumably addressed, with no recurrence in the subsequent two years, indicating a generally stable roadworthiness profile. At eight years old and 43,729 mi on the clock, the average annual accumulation works out to roughly 5,500 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage rate for a family SUV. Such low mileage often points to periods of light duty or extended storage, which can reduce wear on consumables but may also allow rubber components, seals and tyres to age in situ. The MOT history shows no gaps in testing, confirming that the vehicle has been regularly inspected despite the modest mileage. When inspecting the brake system, pay particular attention to the rear pads and discs for any uneven wear, glazing or scoring that could have been missed after the 2024 failure. On a test drive, listen for squeal or grinding on deceleration, feel for any pulsation through the pedal, and note whether the pedal sinks excessively under sustained application – any of these symptoms may indicate residual pad wear, disc thinning or caliper binding. A thorough visual check of the front brakes is also advisable, as wear patterns can differ between axles and a recent rear‑pad replacement may have altered the balance. Given the vehicle’s low‑usage profile, examine the tyres for age‑related cracking, flat‑spotting or uneven wear that can arise from prolonged stationary periods. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for any looseness or creaking when the car is driven over bumps, and look beneath the chassis for any signs of corrosion that could develop when a vehicle sits for extended intervals. A battery health check and a review of fluid condition (engine oil, coolant and brake fluid) are prudent steps to confirm that ageing seals and liquids have not deteriorated despite the modest mileage.