2014 Ssangyong Rodius 2.0L Diesel · RO64 KBZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 8 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, although it was accompanied by several advisories and minor defects that warrant attention. Comparing the 2026 test with the preceding years, there is a discernible worsening trend, with the volume and severity of advisories and minor items notably higher than in earlier years. While the 2023 test was completely clean with no defects recorded, subsequent years have produced repeated advisories relating to suspension bushes, anti-roll bar linkage wear, brake components, and tyre condition. The failure on 28 April 2026 immediately prior to the pass was particularly significant, involving a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system, a damaged obligatory mirror, insufficient brake lever reserve travel, and a deteriorated upper suspension arm ball joint dust cover, suggesting that the vehicle had been returned to a presentation standard but with several underlying issues still present. The recorded mileage of 92,972 miles over a twelve-year life equates to approximately 7,748 miles per year, which is broadly typical for the vehicle's age and segment, although a large MPV such as the Rodius is often expected to cover higher annual distances given its family or commercial orientation. The mileage progression across MOT records appears consistent and gradual, with no significant gaps or sudden accumulations that would suggest a tampered odometer or prolonged standing periods. This steady usage pattern generally supports ongoing mechanical wear but reduces the likelihood of time-related degradation issues such as severe brake disc corrosion from inactivity, perished coolant hoses, or heavy dry rot on the underbody. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories across multiple test cycles point clearly to a pattern of suspension component wear that should be physically inspected and monitored. The consistent flagging of front lower and upper suspension arm ball joint dust covers, anti-roll bar linkage pins and bushes, and the 2024 advisory regarding cracked and perished rear differential bushes indicate that the front and rear suspension assemblies are due for refurbishment, with symptoms on a test drive likely to include clonks or rattles over uneven surfaces, vague or wandering steering response, and uneven inner or outer tyre wear. The 2022 advisory of front sub-frame corrosion should be checked visually for advanced rust scale or structural distortion, while the brake-related advisories from 2022 and the brake lever reserve travel failure in April 2026 suggest that the brake system requires a thorough inspection of pad and disc condition, caliper slide pins, handbrake mechanism ratchet operation, and hydraulic fluid age. Tyre condition is another concern given the repeated advisories for inner edge wear and nails, suggesting possible tracking misalignment or worn suspension geometry contributing to premature tyre deterioration, and the buyer should verify that the spare tyre is serviceable since it was previously flagged as defective. Beyond the documented defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be subject to several calendar-based checks that may not be visible in MOT records. The 12V battery health should be assessed, as units over five years old frequently fail under load without warning. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) should be tested for degradation, with attention to the 2024 advisory that coolant was found below the minimum level, which may indicate a slow leak or neglected maintenance. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for age-related cracking and perishing regardless of tread depth, and the underbody, exhaust system, and rear differential area should be inspected for corrosion, oil leaks, or perished mounting bushes. A thorough road test paying particular attention to suspension noise, brake pedal feel, steering precision, and any warning lights on the dashboard would be highly advisable before purchase.