2012 London Taxis INT TX4 2.5L Diesel · LR12 BWH

The most recent MOT on 6 August 2026 was passed, with a single advisory noting a slightly worn bush on the nearside rear shock absorber. Over the last five years the vehicle has shown a pattern of minor, non‑failing items – recurring oil‑leak advisories each year from 2022 to 2024, a repeat advisory for the rear shock bush in 2025 and 2026, and front‑suspension dust‑cover deterioration recorded in 2025 and 2026. Although no failures have been recorded, the repeat nature of these advisories indicates a maintenance trend that is essentially stable but beginning to show modest deterioration, particularly in the rear suspension and engine‑oil sealing areas. At 236,372 mi the taxi has averaged roughly 16,900 mi per year since its 2012 registration, a mileage level well above the typical private‑car average and consistent with intensive commercial use. Such high annual mileage accelerates wear on consumables – tyre tread and sidewalls, brake pads and discs, suspension bushings, and engine oil‑related components. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely continuous rather than intermittent, meaning that parts subject to cumulative fatigue will be nearer the end of their service life than a lower‑mileage counterpart of the same age. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear shock absorber and its bushings; a worn bush can manifest as a low‑frequency clunk when loading the rear axle, uneven tyre wear on the nearside rear, or a harsher ride over bumps. Inspect the shock absorber for oil seepage and check the bush for looseness or excessive play, and be prepared for a replacement if any movement is felt. The recurring oil‑leak advisory, although not excessive, warrants a visual inspection of the engine bay for fresh oil stains around the valve‑cover gasket, oil‑pan gasket, or any ancillary seals; verify that the oil level is correct and that there are no signs of oil on the exhaust or under the vehicle, as a developing leak could lead to reduced lubrication or fire risk if left unattended. The front‑suspension ball‑joint dust‑cover wear should be checked for any ingress of dirt; feel for any play in the ball joints and listen for creaking when turning the steering wheel, as contamination can accelerate joint wear and affect steering precision. Beyond the specific advisories, the high mileage and age demand a thorough general inspection. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking, and uneven wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing and ensure the pads have sufficient material; any pulsation or shudder under braking should be investigated. Test the 12 V battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, especially if the vehicle has spent long periods idle between shifts. Finally, confirm that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed at the recommended intervals – a visual inspection of fluid colour and level, coupled with a review of the service book, will help gauge whether time‑based fluid degradation has been addressed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the taxi’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance outlay.