2017 Suzuki SX4 1.4L Petrol · FP67 WFS

The most recent MOT inspection on 11 December 2025 indicates a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of recent deterioration regarding the braking system. While the vehicle successfully cleared its previous tests, the transition from minor advisories for binding brakes in 2024 to a formal failure for excessively binding nearside and offside rear service brakes in late 2025 suggests a worsening condition in the rear braking components. Although the immediate failure was rectified to achieve the pass, the recurrence of front brake pad advisories indicates that the vehicle is currently entering a period of increased consumable wear that requires close monitoring. With 70,907 miles recorded over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,879 miles per year. This represents a very typical usage pattern for a petrol-driven compact crossover, suggesting the car has not been subjected to excessive motorway mileage nor has it suffered from the detrimental effects of prolonged periods of standing. This moderate usage level generally implies that mechanical components like the engine and drivetrain should be in a reasonable state of health, though it also means the vehicle is at an age where rubber components, suspension bushes, and fluid degradation become more significant factors than high-mileage wear alone. A prospective buyer must pay particular attention to the braking system during a test drive. Given the history of binding rear brakes and thinning front pads, you should listen for any unusual scraping or grinding noises from the rear wheels and check for excessive heat radiating from the rear hubs after a short journey. During braking, feel for any shuddering or pulsation in the pedal, which could indicate warped discs resulting from the previously noted binding issues. You should also inspect the front brake pads and discs visually if possible, as the advisory for thinning pads suggests that a full replacement of both pads and potentially the discs may be imminent to avoid metal-on-metal contact. Furthermore, the history of steering rack inner joint play in 2022 and tyre wear issues suggests that the suspension geometry and steering components require scrutiny. During the test drive, pay close attention to the steering feel; any vagueness, wandering at speed, or clunking sounds when turning the wheel over bumps could indicate that previous steering defects have resurfaced or that other suspension bushes are failing. Check the tyres for uneven wear patterns, particularly on the inner edges, which would indicate an alignment issue. Finally, because the vehicle has been used consistently, verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed on a calendar basis, as fluid degradation is a common concern for vehicles in this age and mileage bracket.