2010 Toyota Hilux 3.0L Diesel · LS60 GPE

The most recent DVSA MOT, dated 30 October 2025, recorded a failure for the off‑side front position lamp, which means the vehicle did not pass the test despite a number of advisory items being noted on the accompanying pass certificate. Over the last six‑year period the pattern has moved from clean passes in 2021 and 2023 to a growing list of advisory and minor defects, culminating in a functional safety failure in 2025, indicating a maintenance trend that is beginning to deteriorate rather than improve. At 154,126 mi the Hilux averages roughly 9,600 mi per year over its 16‑year life, a usage rate that sits squarely within normal bounds for a light‑commercial vehicle. There are no obvious gaps or periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest severe over‑use, but the cumulative distance does mean that wear‑items such as suspension bushings, drivetrain joints and brake components will be approaching the latter stages of their service lives and should be examined closely. The tyre tread on three of the four wheels is reported as being close to the legal limit and worn on the edges, a condition that typically produces a feather‑light feel on the steering, increased road noise and a propensity for the tyre to develop a bulge or separate under load. Immediate replacement of the near‑side front, near‑side rear and off‑side rear tyres is advisable, and the remaining tyre should be inspected for age‑related cracking even if the tread appears adequate. The near‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint shows slight play and the dust‑cover on both front suspension arms is severely deteriorated; these points can admit grit and moisture, accelerating joint wear and potentially leading to a clunking noise when cornering or over bumps. A test drive should be used to listen for any metallic knock from the front suspension and to feel for any looseness in the steering response. The rear service brake was noted as fluctuating, and front brake pads were flagged as thin in 2022; together these suggest that the rear discs may be unevenly worn or that a caliper could be binding, while the front pads will need replacement soon to maintain consistent braking performance. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle’s age warrants a broader inspection programme. Verify that the 12 V battery holds charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, as prolonged standing can weaken the charge‑retention. Examine all fluid levels and consider a full change of engine oil, coolant and brake fluid, since time‑based degradation can occur even with modest mileage. Check the body floor panels for progression of the corrosion noted in 2020, particularly around the rear floor where holes were previously identified, and ensure there is no rust compromising structural integrity. Finally, confirm that the service history is complete and that any recommended interval services, such as timing belt or chain checks and suspension bush replacement, have been performed in accordance with Toyota’s schedule.