2010 Toyota Hilux 3.0L Diesel · SL60 FBA

The most recent MOT test on this 2010 Toyota Hilux took place on 9 November 2024, resulting in a pass, although the vehicle had failed the preceding day on 8 November 2024 due to a non-functioning offside stop lamp and excessively corroded front brake pipes on both sides, alongside an advisory noting a loose nearside front sidebar bracket. These defects are significant and were remitted before the pass was issued. Looking at the full MOT trajectory, there is a clear and worsening pattern of brake pipe corrosion, with advisories logged in 2021 and 2023 escalating into major failures in both 2022 and 2024. Additional majors in 2022 relating to a perished anti-roll bar linkage dust cover and a leaking rear shock absorber indicate ongoing wear to the suspension and braking systems, while lighting defects have also recurred across recent tests. The cumulative record suggests a vehicle whose underbody and chassis ancillaries are suffering progressive age-related deterioration rather than isolated issues. With 142,539 recorded miles over approximately 16 years, this Hilux averages around 8,909 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and class. While the annual mileage is unremarkable, the repeated advisories and failures relating to brake pipes, suspension components, and tyres suggest the vehicle has seen enough active use to wear mechanical components at a normal pace, and the high absolute mileage places greater emphasis on inspecting the clutch, drivetrain, turbocharger, and timing belt service history. Any large gaps between test dates are not immediately evident, indicating reasonably consistent use, although mileage corroboration through service records would be prudent given the working-vehicle heritage of the Hilux. Given the recurring brake pipe corrosion flagged across nearly every MOT since 2021, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical examination of all brake lines, including those routed along the chassis, rear joiner, and under the cab, looking for surface rust, pitting, weeping joints, and perished flexible hoses. On a test drive, listen for any spongy brake pedal feel, grinding or scraping noises under braking, or brake shudder through the steering wheel, all of which would suggest that the metal brake lines have deteriorated beyond the cosmetic advisories recorded. The 2022 advisories for inner tyres worn on the edge warrant checking all four tyres plus the spare for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking from age, and adequate tread depth, particularly as tyres over six years old may suffer perishing regardless of remaining tread. Beyond the recorded defects, the 2022 failure relating to a leaking rear shock absorber and perished anti-roll bar dust cover indicates that the suspension bushes, coil springs, steering rack, and dampers should be inspected for wear. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking over uneven surfaces, watch for excessive body roll through corners, and check for wandering or imprecise steering. The 16-year-old age also necessitates attention to time-served items not necessarily captured in MOT records, including the condition of the 12V battery, the coolant and brake fluid which degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, the condition of drive belts, and any evidence of oil leaks from the engine or transfer box. A comprehensive service history verifying timing belt and water pump replacement, together with evidence that the brake pipe corrosion has been properly rectified with new sections rather than simply coated, would be essential before purchase.