2020 Levc TX 1.5L Hybrid electric · LS20 NFG

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 January 2026 recorded a Pass with no defects, which on the surface suggests the vehicle was returned to a roadworthy condition following its failure on the previous day. That prior test, however, flagged two Major defects: a nearside front suspension arm pin or bush excessively worn, and an inoperative or malfunctioning engine management indicator lamp (MIL), alongside an advisory for offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear. Looking back through the history, the pattern is clearly one of progressive front suspension deterioration rather than a one-off issue. In January 2024, advisories were issued for both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes showing wear without excessive movement, and by January 2026 the nearside bush had advanced to a Major failure point while the offside was again advisory. This trajectory indicates a maintenance trend that has been gradually worsening on the front suspension geometry, with components that have been monitored but not yet replaced reaching their service limit. The MIL fault is more concerning because it suggests an underlying engine management or emissions system issue that was not rectified or was intermittent, since the subsequent pass the next day does not confirm any repair work was carried out. With 157,312 miles recorded over approximately six years, this LEVC TX is accumulating around 26,200 miles per year, which is exceptionally high even for a commercial hackney carriage or taxi application. The mileage progression across the MOT records is broadly consistent, with no significant gaps that would suggest long periods of standing. Such intensive usage places considerable demand on the drivetrain, brakes, steering, and suspension components, and the recorded suspension wear should be viewed in that context. High annual mileage in a vehicle of this type typically accelerates wear on clutch assemblies, rear electric drive components, brake discs and pads, CV or drive shaft joints, and any rubber or polyurethane bushes throughout the chassis. Given the recurring front suspension arm pin and bush advisories culminating in a Major failure, a prospective buyer should prioritise a physical inspection of the front suspension geometry. Listen for clonks, knocks, or rattles over uneven surfaces, speed bumps, or during full-lock manoeuvres, and check for uneven or feathered front tyre wear which would suggest worn bushes allowing camber or caster variance. The front lower control arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and any associated ball joints should be examined for perished rubber, cracking, or excessive free play when the wheel is loaded. Because the offside front bush was advisory in 2024 and again in 2026, it is likely approaching the same threshold as the nearside, so budget for replacement of both sides as a pair. On test drive, pay particular attention to steering precision, any vibration through the wheel, and whether the vehicle tracks straight under braking, as worn suspension bushes frequently manifest as instability or pulling under these conditions. Beyond the documented suspension concerns, the high-mileage taxi usage warrants checks on items not always visible on an MOT test. Brake discs and pads should be physically inspected for wear, corrosion, and any lipping on the disc edges, while the rear electric drive components and any associated reduction gear should be assessed for noise or vibration on the road. Inspect the tyres for age-related perishing or sidewall cracking regardless of tread depth, as older tyres degrade even on high-mileage vehicles. Verify the 12V auxiliary battery health, as frequent short cycles and standing periods in service use can shorten its life, and confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and any gearbox or reduction unit oils have been changed on calendar basis, typically every two years regardless of mileage. Finally, given the MIL fault that was flagged and the vehicle's age, request evidence of any diagnostic work carried out and consider an independent OBD scan to confirm there are no stored fault codes relating to emissions, sensors, or the hybrid management system before purchase.