2014 Ssangyong Rexton 2.0L Diesel · NX64 BWU

The most recent MOT on 1 May 2026 was a pass, but it was accompanied only by an advisory that the rear seats and seat‑belts were removed at the time of the test. Looking back over the last three years the pattern is one of deterioration: a major failure for the supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning lamp and a fractured front coil spring were recorded in March 2026, and similar SRS and suspension advisories have been present since the December 2023 test. Earlier passes were largely advisory, but the recurrence of serious faults in the last twelve months indicates that the vehicle’s maintenance condition is currently worsening rather than stabilising. At 131,073 mi the Rexton has averaged roughly 10,900 mi per year since its 2014 build, which sits squarely within a normal usage envelope for a family SUV of this age. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear observed is likely the result of steady, moderate use rather than prolonged standing. Nonetheless, a vehicle with over 130,000 mi will have experienced significant wear on consumables such as suspension bushings, shock absorbers, brake components and engine oil, and the mileage level makes the recent front coil‑spring fracture unsurprising. A prospective buyer should give the SRS system a thorough inspection. The persistent fault lamp points to a possible air‑bag sensor or module failure; a qualified technician must read the fault codes, verify the integrity of the passenger‑air‑bag circuit and replace any defective control unit before the system can be relied upon. The front coil spring that fractured in March 2026 should be replaced together with its associated mounting hardware, and the off‑side front shock absorber, which has shown light oil misting for at least two years, should be examined for seal wear – any leak will reduce damping efficiency and can lead to uneven tyre wear or a harsh ride. The slight play noted in the off‑side anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint should be checked for excessive movement or corrosion; a worn joint will produce clunking noises over bumps and can affect handling stability. On a test drive listen for any front‑end noises when traversing potholes, feel for any pull or vibration under braking that could indicate the corroded front brake pipe or deteriorating brake discs, and verify that the rear fog lamp operates, as its failure was recorded as a major defect. Beyond the specific faults, the vehicle’s age warrants a comprehensive condition check. Inspect all four tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread, especially the near‑side front tyre that was previously flagged as close to the legal limit; replace any tyre that shows age‑related perishing even if tread depth appears adequate. Examine the battery terminals and assess the 12‑volt battery’s cranking performance, as a twelve‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed on a calendar basis – fluids degrade over time even without mileage and can cause internal wear. Finally, inspect the chassis for any signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure that the rear seats and seat‑belts are present and correctly fitted before finalising the purchase.