2009 Suzuki Alto 1.0L Petrol · LS59 BSV

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that appears to be worsening rather than resolving. While the July 2026 test at 98,182 miles resulted in a pass, the record shows an increasing frequency of advisory items across multiple systems. The most recent inspection flagged several deteriorating components, including damaged track rod end dust covers, a severely deteriorated nearside front anti-roll bar linkage, and deteriorating rear brake hoses. These issues, combined with light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber, suggest that while the car remains legal, the mechanical condition is steadily declining. The mileage pattern indicates low annual usage, averaging approximately 5,775 miles per year over its 17-year lifespan. This is evident when comparing the 18,189 miles recorded in September 2015 to the 98,182 miles in July 2026. While low mileage often implies less mechanical wear, the history suggests this vehicle may have spent significant periods stationary or was used for very short trips. This is supported by recurring advisories regarding perished rubber components, such as the nearside front tyre cracking in 2026 and the constant velocity joint gaiter issues noted as far back as 2017 and 2018. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the underside and braking system during a physical inspection. The July 2025 test at 94,773 miles highlighted significant corrosion on the front-to-rear brake pipes, and the June 2022 test noted fluctuating service brakes and an imbalanced braking system. Although the brake pipe issue was addressed to secure the 2025 pass, the recurring nature of brake-related faults and the current advisory on rear brake hoses necessitate a thorough check of the entire hydraulic circuit and caliper condition. Suspension and steering components also require close scrutiny. The tester has repeatedly flagged issues with anti-roll bar linkages and dust covers, and the recent presence of damaged track rod end covers indicates that the steering geometry components are reaching the end of their service life. Additionally, the recurring mentions of frosted or defective headlamp lenses and windscreen damage suggest a general pattern of deferred cosmetic and minor maintenance. The presence of oil misting on the shock absorbers indicates that suspension damping may soon require replacement.