2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0L Diesel · MD04 FAM

Corrosion and recurring wear on consumables define the mechanical profile of this Suzuki Grand Vitara, with the most recent MOT pass on 03 October 2025 highlighting a trend of progressive deterioration. The vehicle's history shows a persistent pattern of advisory items involving exhaust system corrosion, thinning brake pads, and worn tyres. Of particular concern is the presence of structural and near-structural corrosion, with the 2025 record noting a corroded nearside inner sill and the 2023 record flagging corrosion on the rear integral body structure. While the vehicle has managed to pass recent tests, the recurring nature of these defects suggests that components such as the exhaust, braking system, and suspension linkages are approaching the end of their effective service life. The recorded mileage of 125,513 miles over a 22-year period represents an average annual accumulation of approximately 5,705 miles. This is a relatively low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age, which can sometimes result in components such as rubber bushes and seals drying out or seizing due to infrequent movement. Mechanically, while the drivetrain may have seen less cumulative stress than a higher-mileage equivalent, the low usage does not mitigate the documented issues with corrosion and component wear. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing, which provides a continuous record of the vehicle's condition, but the low mileage has not prevented the onset of the structural and mechanical issues noted in the recent inspections. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the underside of the vehicle during a physical inspection, specifically targeting the exhaust system and brake lines. The 2024 failure for excessively corroded brake pipes from front to rear indicates that while these may have been addressed, the integrity of the hydraulic lines remains a critical area of concern. On a test drive, listen for any audible changes in engine note or increased vibration that could indicate the minor exhaust gas leak noted in the 2025 advisory. Furthermore, monitor the braking performance for any sponginess or inconsistent pedal feel, which could relate to the history of brake pipe corrosion and thinning pads. Suspension and steering components require thorough evaluation to address the repeated advisories regarding anti-roll bar bushes and steering rack play. During the test drive, pay close attention to the vehicle's response to uneven road surfaces; listen for knocks, clunks, or rattling sounds coming from the front end, which would indicate movement in the anti-roll bar pins or bushes. Additionally, check for any pulling to one side or wandering sensations in the steering, which could be symptomatic of the steering rack inner joint play recorded in 2023. Finally, verify the condition of the tyres, as the recent history shows a recurring pattern of tyres being worn close to the legal limit or unevenly on the edges, which may suggest underlying alignment issues.