2008 Chrysler Voyager 2.8L Diesel · ML08 APU

This 2008 Chrysler Voyager presents a concerning mechanical picture defined by a recurring exhaust gas leak fault that has now appeared at four consecutive tests, alongside a pattern of rear brake binding episodes and chassis component wear. The most recent test on 26 July 2024 recorded a pass with minor and advisory items only, but this follows a failure on 17 July 2024 which was driven by a major exhaust leak, a fractured offside front coil spring, and a nearside rear shock absorber with a serious fluid leak. The exhaust defect has been flagged in some form at every annual test since 2021, escalating from a minor rear box leak in 2021 to major leaks at the manifold or engine in 2022, 2023, and again in 2024, indicating progressive deterioration of the exhaust system rather than a one-off repair. The rear brake system showed major defects in both 2022 and 2023, with binding calipers and a significantly worn nearside rear brake disc recorded, suggesting that the rear brake mechanism has required repeated attention. The 2024 advisory for slight play in both front wheel bearings introduces another steering and suspension concern on top of the coil spring failure, while the consistent offside windscreen damage advisory and persistent nearside registration plate lamp issue point to minor but chronic electrical and glazing faults that have never been rectified across the testing history. Recorded mileage stands at 118,709 miles across a registration period of approximately sixteen to seventeen years, equating to a roughly average annual accumulation of around 6,500 to 7,000 miles per year for its age bracket, so the wear profile should not be considered unusual for its class. There are no significant multi-year gaps in the MOT testing record, with annual tests consistently recorded from 2021 through 2024, which suggests the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for extended periods. The mileage progression between tests is broadly incremental, indicating continuous if modest use, which generally keeps consumables cycling and reduces the risk of dormant corrosion seizing components, though it does mean that brake, suspension, and exhaust wear items have accumulated real-world fatigue over time. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the exhaust system from the manifold gasket downstream, as the four-year history of major leaks strongly suggests that pipe joints, the manifold gasket, or the front pipe section may have been inadequately repaired between tests and warrant a physical examination on a ramp for black soot trails, audible ticking under load, or visible flanges separating. The rear brake calipers and handbrake mechanism deserve close attention, particularly for sticky slider pins or a seized caliper piston that caused the binding defects in 2022 and 2023, which would manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven pad wear, or a wheel running hot after a short drive. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over bumps and uneven road surfaces, as the fractured front coil spring recorded in July 2024 may indicate that other coil springs or the rear shock absorbers are also approaching the end of their service life, while the wheel bearing play advisory warrants checking for any humming or droning that changes with speed or cornering. Further checks should include raising the vehicle to inspect the underside for coolant residue, given the 2023 advisory for a coolant leak under the car, and tracing any wet staining to the radiator, hoses, or water pump area. The offside track rod end ball joint play noted in 2021 should be re-verified by rocking each front wheel with the steering at full lock to detect any looseness or clunking, as worn tie rod ends will cause vague steering and uneven tyre wear. Given the undertray advisory and the general accumulation of advisory items relating to component security, a visual inspection underneath for loose fixings, oil misting around the engine and gearbox seams, and any evidence of recent welding or temporary repairs to the exhaust is strongly recommended before purchase, and budgeting for a full exhaust overhaul alongside a comprehensive brake refurbishment would be a prudent contingency.