1996 Daihatsu Fieldman 2.8L Diesel · P753 CHN

With a large 2765.0cc diesel engine, fuel economy will likely be lower than modern equivalents, though typical for a vehicle of this era and size. Tax and insurance groups for a 1996 diesel vehicle are generally manageable, but the engine size may place it in a higher bracket than smaller diesel alternatives.

Maintenance costs for a 30-year-old vehicle can be unpredictable. While the MOT history shows some wear-and-tear items like anti-roll bar bushes and wiper blades, larger mechanical components like the wheel bearing and potential oil leak repairs should be factored into your budget. Expect an annual running cost that accounts for ageing components and diesel fuel prices.

Focus your inspection on the front suspension and steering components. The August 2026 MOT specifically flagged 'slight play' in the offside front wheel bearing and a 'severely deteriorated' dust cover on the offside front upper suspension arm ball joint; these are critical safety and wear items.

Secondly, inspect the underbody. While the 2023 record noted the underbody was 'heavily undersealed', you should check that this coating hasn't trapped moisture against the chassis, which can lead to hidden corrosion. Finally, check the braking system closely to ensure the 'excessively binding' nearside front service brake noted in 2023 has been fully resolved and is not a recurring issue.