2016 London Taxis INT TX4 2.8L Diesel · LR16 VNL

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-09-08 at 305,449 miles confirms it remains roadworthy, though the history reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures just before passing tests. The two back-to-back failures in August 2023—one at 262,165 miles and the other at 262,171 miles—suggest a test-and-retest scenario, typically indicating minor but persistent issues that were likely addressed between tests. The subsequent clean passes in September 2023 and 2024 imply temporary fixes, but the lack of defects recorded in any test does not guarantee underlying problems have been fully resolved. Buyers should note the vehicle’s MOT cycle is now overdue by nearly a year, which could mask emerging wear, particularly in high-mileage components. The recorded mileage of 305,449 miles over roughly ten years equates to an average of 30,545 miles annually, a rate significantly higher than typical for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2024 failure at 281,252 miles and the subsequent pass at 281,464 miles—just 212 miles—indicates either rapid accumulation or a deliberate retest after minor repairs. The absence of any mileage readings between 2023 and 2024 suggests the vehicle may have been stationary for extended periods, which could accelerate corrosion or degrade fluid systems. However, the consistent passing trend after failures points to a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive care. Given the repeated near-failures and high mileage, an in-person inspection should prioritise the suspension system, particularly coil springs and bushes, which often degrade incrementally and may have been temporarily stabilised between tests. The brakes, while not explicitly failed, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Corrosion checks are critical, focusing on wheel arches, subframe, and exhaust mounts, as standing vehicles are prone to rust progression. The absence of defect records does not preclude hidden issues—buyers should verify service records for brake fluid changes, differential fluid levels, and tyre rotations, as these are often overlooked in high-mileage vehicles.