2004 Iveco Daily 2.3L Diesel · NX04 BFZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 11 October 2024 resulted in a PASS, but the accumulation of advisories across successive tests indicates an overall maintenance trend that is best described as stable yet ageing rather than improving. Three advisories were recorded at this latest test, all of which are mechanically relevant to ongoing roadworthiness. The front upper suspension arm corrosion on both sides is consistent with a 22 year old commercial vehicle and should be monitored for progression, as the inspector specifically noted the components are not yet seriously weakened. The fluctuating front service brake is a notable concern that can indicate uneven pad wear, glazing, or a caliper issue, while the slight fraying of the central seat belt webbing, which has now appeared on two consecutive tests, suggests the belt has not been renewed and represents a safety item that ought to be addressed prior to further use. Recorded mileage of 145,513 miles over approximately 22 years equates to an average annual accumulation of around 6,600 miles, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this era and likely reflects a working life with periods of regular use interspersed with downtime. Such a usage pattern is entirely consistent with the type of wear observed, and the MOT history does not reveal any extended gaps that would suggest prolonged standing, which is a common cause of binding calipers, brake disc corrosion, and perishing of rubber components. The mileage progression itself appears to be incremental and in line with commercial operation, so there is no particular concern regarding clocked figures or anomalous jumps, although a prospective buyer should still verify the mileage against the service book documentation and any historical records. The most pressing area for inspection is the braking system. The vehicle failed its April 2022 test on both rear wheel bearings and on overall service brake efficiency, and although it subsequently passed, the fluctuation noted on the front brakes in October 2024 suggests the system is not entirely settled. A prospective buyer should carry out a firm test drive specifically listening for any rumble or drone from the rear hubs, as the wheel bearings were previously found to have excessive play, and should feel for any pulsing or pulling under braking that could indicate warped discs or a binding caliper. The front upper suspension arm corrosion should be examined visually for any scaling, section loss, or cracking around the mounting bushes, and the nearside front lower ball joint play recorded in 2023 warrants a physical check for any looseness or knocking over speed humps and uneven surfaces. Given the age and mileage, a number of time based checks are also advisable regardless of the MOT outcome. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking and perishing from age rather than simply tread depth, particularly on the offside rear where perishing was previously flagged, and the general underside corrosion noted in 2022 should be re-examined on a ramp for any structural concerns. Brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid will all benefit from renewal on a calendar basis, and the 12V battery should be load tested as vehicles of this age frequently suffer from reduced cranking performance. The marker light lenses, blind spot mirror, and seat belt webbing noted across recent tests are inexpensive items but should be rectified, and verification of the full service history with documented timing belt replacement, given the vehicle's age and mileage, would be highly advisable before purchase.