2008 London Taxis INT TX4 2.5L Diesel · LS08 SYA

A remarkably clean MOT record defines this TX4, with every recorded test result from the past three years showing either a pass or a fail, but with no advisories, defects, or component-specific items logged against the vehicle. The most recent test on 13 July 2023 concluded with a pass and no defects recorded, continuing a pattern of stable roadworthiness compliance that stretches back through the available history. Two tests in 2023, on 10 January and 13 July, both resulted in passes with no advisories despite the intervening failed attempts a day prior to each, which suggests the garage addressed issues promptly and retested successfully. The absence of recurring advisories on suspension, brakes, corrosion, or exhaust components across these tests is a strong indicator that the vehicle has not accumulated the kind of chronic wear patterns typically flagged on high-mileage vehicles of this age. Against an 18-year span, the recorded 364,520 miles equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 20,251 miles, which is substantially above the typical private-use figure and consistent with prior service as a working London taxi. This intensive usage profile is not a negative in itself, as TX4s were engineered for high-mileage commercial operation, but it does mean that major drivetrain components, clutch assemblies, rear axle bearings, and the diesel engine ancillaries have been subjected to sustained heavy loading. There are no testing gaps in the available record that would indicate a prolonged period off the road, which means the mileage progression has been continuous rather than interrupted by lay-up conditions that could bring their own concerns such as perished rubber or seized brake calipers. For a prospective buyer, the lack of recorded advisories means particular attention should be paid during a physical inspection and test drive to areas that commonly wear silently on high-mileage TX4s but may not have been flagged at MOT stage. On the road, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as front wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and top mounts on this platform are known to deteriorate; any vagueness in steering response or a clunk when turning sharply at low speed warrants investigation of the rack and tie rod ends. Check for pulling under braking or a spongy pedal feel, as the brake servo and master cylinder can suffer from internal wear at this mileage, and inspect the rear brake shoes and adjusters for binding, which is a known issue on these vehicles due to infrequent manual adjustment. Under the bonnet, look carefully for oil leaks from the sump, front crankshaft seal, and the rear of the engine where it meets the gearbox, as well as any signs of diesel leakage from the injector lines and lift pump. Inspect the condition of the exhaust downpipe and EGR cooler area for corrosion, particularly around the mounting brackets, and examine the underside for any surface rust on subframe mounting points or rear axle casing, none of which were flagged in the MOT record but are typical ageing concerns. During a test drive, pay attention to the operation of the clutch, noting any slipping under load or juddering on take-off, and confirm that the gearbox selects all gears cleanly without excessive baulkiness. Finally, verify the condition of the cooling system hoses and radiator for any signs of recent leakage or staining, as a neglected cooling system is a common cause of head gasket failure on the 2.5-litre diesel fitted to this model.