1998 Daihatsu Fourtrak 2.8L Diesel · S476 AAF

A clear pattern of structural and chassis-related corrosion, combined with a recent failure concerning suspension mounting integrity, defines the mechanical profile of this 28-year-old Daihatsu Fourtrak. The most recent test on 1 May 2026 was a pass, but it carried advisories for rear bumper damage and underside corrosion, signalling that body and chassis deterioration remains an active concern rather than a resolved issue. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle has accumulated three failures in recent years, including a significant Major defect in January 2023 for an excessively corroded offside rear suspension component mounting that was judged to significantly reduce structural strength of the chassis, alongside excessively worn bushes on both front lower shock absorbers. An earlier failure in 2022 flagged a binding offside front service brake, ineffective wiper operation, and an inoperative nearside stop lamp, while the 2021 test recorded inoperative hazard warning lamps and a missing rear registration plate. The pattern points to a vehicle where corrosion, suspension wear, and basic electrical and braking functionality have repeatedly demanded rectification. Recorded mileage stands at 151,844 miles across approximately 28 years, equating to a notably low annual average of roughly 5,423 miles. This figure is unusually modest for a working 4x4 of this era and could suggest periods of limited use or extended standing, both of which carry specific mechanical implications. Long stationary periods accelerate corrosion in chassis rails, suspension mountings, and brake hydraulic components, while low cumulative mileage does not necessarily preserve complex items such as rubber bushes, brake seals, and wheel bearings, all of which deteriorate with age regardless of distance covered. The MOT history is also discontinuous, with a notable gap between October 2019 and October 2021 during which no test was recorded, and further gaps that suggest the vehicle has not been in continuous active use throughout its life. Given the documented history, a prospective buyer should approach this Fourtrak with particular attention to structural integrity and suspension condition. The 2023 Major defect regarding the offside rear chassis mounting area should prompt a thorough underbody inspection, ideally with the vehicle on a ramp, checking for perforation, flaking metal, and repair quality around all suspension pick-up points, particularly the rear spring mountings which were flagged for corrosion as far back as 2019. The 2023 advisories for slight play in both front wheel bearings and the earlier binding front brake calliper mean a test drive should include careful listening for rotational noise or rumble from the front hubs, feeling for any pulsing or uneven braking response, and checking that the brake pedal returns cleanly without sponginess or judder. The oil leak flagged in December 2023, although not classed as excessive, warrants inspection of the engine and gearbox lower areas for fresh seepage, while the worn shock absorber bushes recorded on both sides indicate that ride quality should be assessed over uneven surfaces, listening for clonking or knocking from the front suspension and observing whether the vehicle remains composed without excessive body roll. Electrical integrity is another area warranting close scrutiny, given the repeated failures for stop lamps, position lamps, and the 2021 inoperative hazard warning switch and lamps. Every external lighting function should be verified during a pre-purchase walkaround, and the hazard switch operation confirmed. The clutch pedal rubber noted as missing in 2021 may also still be absent and should be inspected for comfort and safety. Finally, with underside corrosion noted as recently as the 2026 test and the vehicle's age, a thorough check of brake pipes, fuel lines, and exhaust mounting points for advanced rust is essential, as these items commonly determine whether an older Fourtrak remains viable for continued road use.