1995 Toyota Hilux 3.0L Diesel · M898 COT

The 1995 Toyota Hilux most recently passed its MOT on 29 December 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents the cleanest result in the available five-year history and suggests the vehicle is presently in a roadworthy condition. Reviewing the trend across the last five tests, the pattern is one of stable to improving maintenance rather than deterioration. The 2024 and 2023 tests both flagged severely deteriorated front outer CV joint boots on both sides, yet the latest test shows these have either been rectified or have not yet degraded to a failable level, while a recurring advisory for a minor oil leak noted in 2022 and 2023 did not reappear in 2024 or 2025. A fluctuating offside rear brake advisory from 2022 also did not recur. The overall trajectory indicates the owner has been addressing issues progressively, and the absence of any advisories on the most recent examination is a positive indicator of current mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 248,426 miles over approximately 31 years equates to an annual average of around 8,014 miles, which is broadly typical for a working vehicle of this age. There are no obvious large gaps in the MOT record that would imply extended periods of standing, which is beneficial because long-standing vehicles are prone to seized calipers, perished rubber, brake disc corrosion, and 12V battery degradation. Conversely, the consistent usage means that consumable components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, brake pads, brake discs, and clutch components have all been worked through their normal service life many times. At this odometer reading, internal engine wear, turbocharger condition (if fitted), and transmission synchro wear become relevant considerations, and verification of timing belt replacement history is critical on any high-mileage Hilux. Because the CV joint boot advisories have appeared on multiple occasions, the prospective buyer should carefully inspect both front driveshaft gaiters for any fresh splits, grease loss around the inner and outer CV joints, and any clicking or knocking noises when turning at full lock during a test drive. If grease has been flung onto the surrounding suspension or brake components, it can also cause brake contamination issues. The recurring minor oil leak, although never classed as excessive, warrants a physical underbonnet and underfloor inspection for dampness around the engine sump, valve cover gasket, crankshaft seals, and rear main seal area, as well as checking the coolant and brake fluid levels for any signs of cross-contamination. On the test drive, listen for any engine rattle on startup, watch for blue exhaust smoke indicating oil burn, and confirm that the clutch pedal feel remains firm without slipping under load. Given the vehicle's age of over three decades, even with a clean MOT record the buyer should undertake age-specific checks beyond the statutory test items. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking from age rather than solely tread depth, as 31-year-old rubber can fail catastrophically despite legal tread. The brake discs should be inspected for corrosion lipping and binding calipers, particularly given the offside rear brake advisory history, and the handbrake mechanism tested on an incline for holding ability. All fluid services should be considered overdue unless documented, including brake fluid (typically biennial), coolant (which degrades and loses corrosion protection over time), differential and transfer box oil if four-wheel drive, and manual transmission oil. The 12V battery health should be checked, and the chassis, cab mounts, rear crossmember, and exhaust system should be examined for structural corrosion, which is a common failure point on older Hiluxes kept in service. Finally, verifying a continuous service history with stamps or invoices will provide the strongest confirmation that this exceptionally well-travelled example has been mechanically maintained throughout its working life.