2014 London Taxis INT TX4 2.5L Diesel · LM64 UAW

Significant mechanical instability in the suspension and braking systems has characterised recent MOT inspections for this vehicle, despite a successful pass on 08 May 2026. The testing history shows a volatile pattern of critical failures, most notably a dangerous defect in October 2025 involving a fractured offside front inner brake disc, alongside major failures for a worn nearside front upper suspension bush and an offside front wheel bearing with excessive play. While the most recent result shows no defects, the recurrence of serious structural and safety-critical component failures within a twelve-month period indicates a history of significant wear on the vehicle's running gear. The recorded mileage of 145,080 miles over a twelve-year period represents an average annual accumulation of approximately 12,090 miles. While this is relatively consistent for a commercial vehicle of this type, the total mileage suggests a high level of cumulative wear on drivetrain, suspension, and braking components. In a vehicle designed for heavy-duty urban use, this mileage level necessitates close scrutiny of all wear-and-tear items, as the mechanical load associated with this usage pattern often accelerates the degradation of bushings, bearings, and braking surfaces. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the front-end geometry and steering response during a test drive. Given the previous failures of the nearside front upper suspension bush and the nearside front lower suspension component, it is essential to listen for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any perceptible pulling to one side or instability in the steering feel could indicate that previous repairs to the suspension linkages or bushes have not fully addressed underlying wear or that other components in the steering rack or control arms are nearing the end of their service life. The safety-critical failures regarding the offside front wheel bearing and the fractured brake disc require a thorough physical inspection of the wheel hubs and braking assembly. During the test drive, monitor for any rhythmic humming or grinding noises from the front end, which would suggest wheel bearing play, and check for any pedal judder or vibration under braking that might indicate issues with the discs or calipers. The history of a fractured brake disc is a severe indicator of component fatigue, so a visual inspection of the brake discs for surface cracking or excessive scoring is highly recommended to ensure the integrity of the braking system.