1992 Toyota Surf 2.4L Diesel · J304 GAH
1992 Toyota Surf (2.4L, diesel). First registered 31 Dec 1992. Recorded mileage 195,665 miles. MOT valid until 25 Apr 2027. Taxed until 01 Nov 2026.
- Make & Model
- TOYOTA SURF
- Year / Origin
- 1992
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 25 Apr 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Nov 2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 195,665 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
J304 GAH Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 22/04/2026
- 195,665 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
J304 GAH MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1992 Toyota Surf (J304 GAH) between March 2022 and April 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 5 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
J304 GAH Mileage History
- 29/03/2022193,215 mi
- 27/04/2023193,504 mi+289 mi
- 08/04/2024194,996 mi+1,492 mi
- 03/04/2025195,293 mi+297 mi
- 22/04/2026195,665 mi+372 mi
Average of roughly 603 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution and budget for imme
When viewing this diesel 2400cc Hilux, your primary focus should be on the recurring mechanical advisories. The exhaust leak noted in both 2025 and 2026 indicates a persistent issue that could lead to more significant repairs if left unaddressed. You should also ask for evidence of any work carried out to rectify the nearside front wheel bearing play, as this has appeared in two consecutive MOT tests.
Negotiate based on the cost of addressing these specific items. Given the vehicle's age and high mileage, ensure you check the underside for corrosion, which is common for this era of 4x4, although not explicitly detailed in the MOT text provided. A thorough test drive to check for braking issues is also advised, following the binding brake issue noted in 2023.
As a 2.4L diesel, running costs will be higher than a standard passenger car. Fuel economy will depend heavily on driving style and load, but expect typical 4x4 consumption levels. Tax and insurance groups for a 1992 model are generally moderate, though the engine size and vehicle type may influence the insurance premium.
Maintenance costs for a vehicle of this age and mileage are likely to be higher due to the wear and tear associated with 195,000+ miles. Budget for regular servicing of the diesel engine and potential replacement of suspension or braking components, given the historical advisories for wheel bearings and binding brakes.
Specifically inspect the exhaust system for signs of heavy corrosion or leaks, as this has been a recurring MOT advisory in the last two years. Check the nearside front wheel area for any unusual noise or vibration, which would correlate with the reported wheel bearing play.
Additionally, verify the condition of the braking system. While the offside front binding brake was noted in 2023, you should ensure the entire braking setup is free from sticking or uneven performance. Given the high mileage, also inspect the drive shafts and suspension bushings for excessive wear.
This 1992 Toyota Hi Lux Surf, finished in green, shows a consistent mileage pattern, having covered approximately 195,665 miles as of April 2026. The MOT history shows a pattern of minor recurring defects, specifically regarding the exhaust system and front wheel bearing. While it has passed its last five tests, the presence of repeat advisories suggests certain maintenance items have been overlooked.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific Toyota Hi Lux Surf model to provide a comparative benchmark.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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