2011 London Taxis INT TX4 2.5L Diesel · LL61 DFN

The latest MOT test in November 2023 resulted in a pass, though it carried advisories for an oil leak, light misting on both rear shock absorbers, and corroded brake pipes. However, the preceding failure in October 2023 revealed serious issues, including a fractured nearside rear coil spring, a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber, and dangerous defects on both front brake discs and pads, which were critically worn. This pattern suggests a worsening trend in the suspension and braking systems, with recurring advisories for oil leaks and shock absorber wear escalating into major failures. The maintenance history indicates that while some issues were addressed to achieve a pass, the underlying wear in high-stress components remains a concern. At 15 years old with 198,035 miles, this TX4 has accumulated an annual average of around 13,200 miles, which is high for a vehicle of its age. Such consistent usage places significant demand on consumables like brakes, suspension bushes, and drivetrain components, all of which are likely to exhibit advanced wear. The rapid mileage accumulation increases the likelihood of fatigue in structural and mechanical parts, particularly in the rear suspension, where coil springs and shock absorbers have already shown failure. Buyers should expect that many components are nearing or have exceeded their operational lifespan. On inspection, prioritise the rear suspension by checking for uneven ride height, clunking noises over rough surfaces, or excessive bouncing after pressing down on the rear corners, all of which would indicate worn or fractured coil springs or failing shock absorbers. The front brakes require urgent attention; listen for grinding or squealing under braking and inspect the discs for deep scoring, grooving, or excessive lip formation, as well as measuring pad thickness to ensure it exceeds the minimum 1.5 mm. The recurring oil leak advisory warrants checking under the engine and gearbox for fresh deposits, particularly around the sump, rocker cover, and differential, as persistent leaks can lead to long-term lubrication issues. Additionally, examine the corroded brake pipes for signs of excessive rust or weeping fluid, as these could fail under pressure and compromise braking integrity. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, also verify the condition of the 12V battery, as high usage can shorten its lifespan, and inspect the tyres for uneven wear or sidewall cracking, which may indicate alignment or suspension problems. Time-based fluids, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil, should be checked for degradation, as these are often overlooked in high-mileage vehicles. Finally, review the service history to confirm that critical components like the timing belt, water pump, and diesel particulate filter (if fitted) have been maintained in line with manufacturer intervals, as their failure could result in catastrophic engine damage.