2008 Suzuki Splash 1.2L Petrol · PE58 HCL

Based on the official DVSA MOT records, the 2008 Suzuki Splash presents a stable and generally improving maintenance trend as of its most recent test. On 5 November 2025, at 123,220 miles, the vehicle passed with zero defects recorded, which is a strong indicator of current roadworthiness. This clean sheet follows a pattern of active remediation. A buyer should note that the vehicle failed its prior test on 7 November 2023 at 109,463 miles for several significant issues, including a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber, a major exhaust leak, corroded offside outer sill, and a headlamp aim fault. The subsequent pass on 23 November 2023 at 109,641 miles confirms these specific faults were addressed promptly within the same month. The record then shows two consecutive clean passes, indicating the owner has maintained the vehicle to a compliant standard since those repairs were carried out. The mileage accumulation is consistent and unremarkable for an eighteen-year-old vehicle. Between the 2022 pass at 104,613 miles and the 2025 pass at 123,220 miles, the vehicle covered 18,607 miles over a three-year period, averaging approximately 6,200 miles annually. This sits comfortably within the typical usage range suggested for its age and does not raise concerns regarding long periods of standing or excessively rapid wear. The annual tests are spaced appropriately, and the mileage progression between each test is logical, showing no anomalous jumps or gaps that would suggest odometer tampering or extended periods of disuse. Despite the recent clean record, a buyer must inspect specific structural and mechanical components closely due to the recurring nature of certain defects. The 2024 test, passed on 1 November at 114,411 miles, flagged both the nearside and offside rear brake pipes as corroded and contaminated with grease or other material. This recurring brake pipe corrosion, appearing again after a clean 2023 test, suggests the vehicle may be prone to moisture ingress or underseal degradation around the rear braking circuit. A thorough physical inspection of the entire rear brake line routing, including the area above the rear axle and any flexible hoses, is essential to rule out active seepage or advanced pitting. The 2023 failure for a corroded offside outer sill also warrants careful scrutiny of the vehicle's structural integrity. While the tester passed the sill after repair, the presence of corrosion on an eighteen-year-old city car is a known risk factor. A buyer should check the nearside sill, both inner and outer sills, and the subframe mounting points for any signs of filler, fresh underseal, or active corrosion that could compromise structural strength. The suspension and exhaust systems also demand attention following the 2023 failure. The offside rear shock absorber was leaking fluid seriously enough to cause a failure. Although this was repaired, a buyer should physically inspect both rear dampers for oil misting or wetness, which indicates a failing seal, and check the exhaust system, particularly the manifold, flexi-joint, and back box, for any signs of gas leaks or temporary repairs like exhaust paste. The combination of corroded brake pipes, historical structural corrosion, and a previous shock absorber failure points to a vehicle that has likely spent time in a damp climate or on salted roads. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on these underbody areas is strongly advised to ensure the repairs have been executed to a lasting standard and that no underlying deterioration has progressed since the last test.