2002 Toyota HI-ACE 2.5L Diesel · HY02 APF

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of deferred mechanical repairs and consumable neglect. While the most recent test in February 2026 at 124,440 miles passed with only a minor offside front shock absorber showing light misting of oil, this specific fault has appeared in every test since 2022, indicating a lack of proactive replacement. Although immediate failures like steering rack play and bulbs are addressed between tests, the overall ownership pattern suggests a reactive rather than preventative maintenance strategy. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 124,440 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 5,185 miles per year. The data shows significant periods of inactivity, such as the two-year gap between September 2019 and July 2021 where the vehicle covered only 5,164 miles. This low-use pattern correlates with the age-related degradation of rubber components, evidenced by multiple instances of perished and cracked tyres noted in 2018, 2019, and 2021 despite low tread wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the chassis to assess the underside corrosion, which has been a recurring advisory since at least 2021. The steering system requires close attention as the nearside steering rack inner joint showed play in 2025, and the nearside wheel bearing was flagged for play in 2022. Furthermore, the persistent oil leak noted in 2022 should be monitored to ensure it has not worsened beyond a minor seep, especially given the vehicle's age and the likelihood of dry seals from long periods of stationary use.