2004 Suzuki Liana 1.6L Petrol · PL53 WNJ

The most recent MOT test for the Suzuki Liana was conducted in June 2020, resulting in a passing grade, though the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring and sometimes severe failures over the past six years. While the 2020 test was clean, the preceding tests—particularly those in 2016, 2019, and 2021—highlight persistent issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) malfunctioning, brake binding, corroded brake pipes, and structural corrosion on the rear bodywork. The 2022 failure stands out as particularly critical, with major defects including a non-functional ABS warning lamp, a severely corroded rear body panel likely to cause injury, and major exhaust leaks and insecurity, which collectively suggest either unresolved or worsening mechanical and safety concerns. The vehicle’s MOT record does not show a clear improvement, and the recurring advisories and failures indicate that the owner has not fully addressed critical wear and corrosion issues, which may have escalated over time. The recorded mileage of 121,545 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years is unusually low, reflecting an annual usage rate of around 5,525 miles, which is significantly below the expected wear rates for such an old car. This low mileage could imply prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without regular maintenance, leading to accelerated corrosion and fluid degradation. However, it is also possible that the owner has driven the car sparingly, which might mitigate some wear on consumables like brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain elements. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle’s wear profile may be influenced more by calendar-based aging than by mechanical stress from frequent use, but this does not absolve the need for thorough inspection to identify hidden issues exacerbated by prolonged standing. Given the Suzuki Liana’s age and the recurring MOT defects, the buyer should prioritise a meticulous mechanical inspection to confirm the absence of underlying problems that may not have been caught during previous tests. The ABS failure and binding brakes are particularly critical, as they directly impact safety. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, excessive brake pedal squeeze, or a lack of ABS modulation during hard braking. Check for clunking noises from the suspension, particularly around the front lower arms, which the 2020 MOT noted as worn but not excessively so—though further wear could lead to binding or misalignment. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, which the 2022 MOT flagged as a major issue, and verify that all hoses and connections are secure to prevent fluid leaks or gas leaks that could compromise emissions or safety. The corroded brake pipes and bodywork advisories suggest that the vehicle may have suffered from moisture ingress, so inspect the brake system for corrosion on the master cylinder, calipers, and wheel cylinders, and look for signs of brake fluid contamination or degradation, which can lead to hydraulic failure. For practical checks beyond the MOT, the buyer should examine the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracks, which are common in vehicles of this age, even if mileage is low. Given the vehicle’s history of standing, check for standing corrosion on the chassis, especially around the rear bodywork and undercarriage, as well as any signs of rust in the wheel arches or beneath the vehicle. The battery should be tested for health, as low usage can lead to sulphation or weak terminals, which may cause starting issues. Fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for degradation, as fluids can break down over time, even without high mileage. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that the last service was recent and that all fluids were replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, as time-based servicing is crucial for longevity. Finally, the windscreen wipers and position lamps from the 2023 MOT failures should be replaced, as these are essential for visibility and legality, and their failure indicates a pattern of neglect in basic components.