2013 Isuzu Trucks 3.0L Diesel · LM13 GUX

The mechanical narrative on this 2013 Isuzu Grafter N35.150 is dominated by a pattern of recurring exhaust system failures, front-end steering and brake wear, and a notable tyre condition issue, which together suggest a commercial vehicle that has seen hard service rather than light use. The most recent test on 28 March 2025 resulted in a pass, but only after the vehicle had failed outright two days earlier on 26 March 2025 due to a wiper that could not clear the screen effectively, front brake pads worn down to the wear indicator, and a major exhaust gas leak. This is the second consecutive year that a major exhaust leak has been flagged, following the 19 March 2024 failure which also included an offside front track rod end with excessive play, a serious steering component defect. The trend is clearly worsening rather than improving, with the 2025 entry adding brake and visibility failures on top of the previously identified exhaust and steering concerns, and any prospective buyer should view the March 2025 pass as conditional on the rectification of those multiple major defects being verified independently. With 135,690 miles recorded over approximately 13 years of service, the average annual accumulation is around 10,438 miles, which is broadly typical for a light commercial of this age and category. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record to suggest prolonged standing time, meaning the mechanical components have been worked consistently throughout the vehicle's life. For a commercial chassis at this mileage, the recorded wear pattern is consistent with what would be expected from sustained operational use, and it underlines why the front brake, steering linkage, and exhaust components flagged in the last two tests are likely to be approaching the end of their effective service life rather than suffering from isolated faults. The 2023 advisory noting corrosion on the central rear brake pipe to the flexi hose is also a relevant indicator of age-related underfloor deterioration on a vehicle that has covered this mileage. A prospective buyer should prioritise a close inspection of the front braking system, given that pads were recorded as worn down to the wear indicator on the March 2025 failure. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front axle, check for pulling to one side under braking which would indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear, and inspect the front discs for scoring or a pronounced lip on the outer edge, as these will often need replacement alongside pads on a commercial vehicle at this mileage. The steering system requires equal attention following the 2024 track rod end failure and the 2023 brake pipe corrosion advisory; with the engine running and the vehicle stationary, turn the wheel lock to lock and feel for any knocking, clonking, or delay in response which would suggest worn track rod ends, drop links, or steering rack wear, and examine the underbody for any fresh underseal applied over corroded brake lines which would mask active rust. The exhaust system warrants particular scrutiny as it has now been flagged with major leaks in both the 2024 and 2025 tests, along with a minor leak advisory in 2023, indicating progressive deterioration rather than a one-off joint failure. With the engine running from cold, listen for any ticking, hissing, or louder-than-expected exhaust note that would suggest a blowing joint or cracked pipe, and check the underside for soot deposits around joints and hangers. Given the 2022 dangerous failures on both rear inner tyres for tread depth below 1.6mm, alongside the 2025 advisory that all four rear tyres were worn close to the legal limit on the edge, the buyer should confirm the fitment date and condition of all tyres, ensuring they are matched in make, size, and tread depth, and budget for a full set if the existing ones are nearing the limit. Finally, verify that the wiper linkage and motor have been properly addressed following the March 2025 failure, as a wiper that fails to clear the screen effectively can be symptomatic of a worn linkage rather than simply perished blades, particularly on a commercial vehicle of this age.