2009 Suzuki Alto 1.0L Petrol · PL09 GDV

A pattern of emerging front suspension wear defines the mechanical history of this 17 year old Suzuki Alto, with nearside and offside front suspension arm pins or bushes flagged as worn on both the 2024 and 2025 MOT inspections. While these defects were recorded as advisories rather than failure items, indicating movement remained within legal tolerances at the time of test, the fact that the same components were noted across two consecutive annual examinations suggests progressive deterioration rather than a static condition. The 2026 test recorded a pass with no advisories at all, but this followed an immediate failure on the same date for an inoperative windscreen washer, a minor but straightforward defect that was presumably rectified prior to the pass being issued. Overall, the vehicle presents a stable but ageing mechanical picture, with the suspension wear being the most significant ongoing concern. The recorded mileage of 65,923 miles over approximately 17 years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 3,878 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and points to either light regular use or extended periods of stationary storage. There are no unexplained gaps in the MOT testing history, with annual tests recorded consistently through 2024, 2025, and 2026, suggesting the vehicle has remained in active use. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major drivetrain components and brake friction materials but can introduce separate concerns such as dried rubber bushes, stiffening brake calipers from infrequent operation, and potential flat spots or sidewall degradation in tyres that have aged on the vehicle without being turned over regularly. The tyre advisories recorded in 2024, including perishing and wear close to the legal limit on the nearside pair, are consistent with prolonged standing periods or simply age-related rubber degradation. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection area is the front suspension geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces, as worn suspension arm pins or bushes typically generate audible impact noises once movement exceeds advisory thresholds. Check for uneven or accelerated tyre wear across the front axle, as misalignment caused by worn suspension linkages often presents as feathering or shoulder wear on the inside or outside edges. With the vehicle unladen, push and pull laterally on each front wheel at the three and nine o'clock positions to detect any play in the suspension arms, and repeat with vertical pressure at the six o'clock position to isolate bush deterioration from ball joint wear. Also inspect the rear tyres carefully, as the 2024 advisories noted cracking on the nearside rear, and any tyres fitted in 2024 will now be approaching two years of service. Given the low annual mileage and the tyre advisories recorded, pay particular attention to the age and condition of all four tyres, including those not specifically flagged, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth. Inspect the sidewalls for hairline cracks, particularly on the nearside pair, and verify that none of the fitted tyres are approaching the end of their usable service life. The brakes should also be exercised firmly during a test drive to confirm the calipers are freeing off correctly after periods of light use, with the vehicle pulling evenly to a stop and no binding or dragging sensation from either front wheel. Finally, verify the operation of the windscreen washer system directly, as it failed on the most recent inspection, and confirm that all other minor items such as lights, wipers, and horn function correctly to avoid immediate retest issues.