2016 London Taxis INT TX4 2.8L Diesel · LO16 UEN

The latest MOT test on 2026-05-22 resulted in a pass, though it included several persistent advisories that reflect ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The overall maintenance trend over the past year is mixed, with a notable failure in 2024-05, where a fractured offside rear upper coil spring was identified as a major defect, indicating a critical failure point that should have been addressed promptly. Subsequent MOTs have shown recurring advisories related to suspension components—particularly the offside front upper suspension arm pin or bush and the offside front lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joint—suggesting these areas have been subjected to cumulative stress, likely from high-mileage usage or prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. The presence of corrosion advisories on both offside rear coil springs further implies that environmental factors, such as moisture ingress or poor drainage, have contributed to accelerated degradation in these high-stress components. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 185,310 miles at this point represents a significant annual usage rate of approximately 18,531 miles per year, which is unusually high for a ten-year-old car, particularly one that appears to have been used primarily for commercial or high-demand purposes. Such mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumable items like tyres, brakes, and lubricants, as well as structural components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and ball joints. The absence of substantial mileage gaps between MOTs suggests consistent operation, which may have led to rapid deterioration in certain areas. For instance, the offside rear tyre showing edge wear close to the legal limit indicates excessive lateral forces or misalignment, which could be exacerbated by suspension deficiencies. Additionally, the high mileage may have contributed to the observed corrosion in the rear coil springs, as these components are prone to fatigue and corrosion over time under sustained load. Given the recurring suspension advisories and the critical failure from the 2024 MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the following components: the offside front upper suspension arm pin or bush, the offside front lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, and the offside rear upper and lower coil springs. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks, rattles, or a loss of ride comfort from the front suspension, which may indicate worn or failing bushes or ball joints. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the offside rear tyre, which could suggest misalignment or suspension binding. Inspect the rear suspension for excessive sag or binding when the vehicle is lifted on a jack, as this may reveal coil spring failure or damage. The fractured coil spring from the previous MOT failure underscores the need to replace this component immediately, as coil springs are critical for load distribution and handling stability. Additionally, verify that the anti-roll bar linkages and suspension arms are securely mounted and free from excessive play, as any movement could lead to further wear or instability. For the buyer, the vehicle’s high mileage and recurring suspension issues necessitate immediate attention to the identified defects. While the tyre wear is nearing the legal limit, addressing the suspension and coil spring issues will improve roadholding and prevent further mechanical failures. Beyond the immediate repairs, the buyer should schedule a comprehensive service to replace the offside rear upper coil spring and any other worn suspension components, such as the front upper suspension arm pin or bush and ball joints, to restore the vehicle’s safety and performance. It is also advisable to check the offside rear coil springs for signs of further corrosion or fatigue, as these advisories suggest a pattern of neglect or exposure to corrosive elements. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage, the buyer should consider a full mechanical inspection, including the drivetrain, exhaust system, and electrical components, to ensure no other critical failures have developed. If the suspension issues are not addressed promptly, the risk of a catastrophic failure—such as a coil spring rupture—could compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness and safety.