2010 Toyota Hilux 3.0L Diesel · SP52 LOG

The most recent MOT test on this 2010 Toyota Hilux was conducted on 3 October 2025 and resulted in a Pass, though it carried a Minor defect for an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp together with an Advisory noting slight seepage from the front lower power steering pipe or hose. Looking at the broader DVSA history, the trend is broadly stable but with a notable cluster of defects appearing in 2025. The previous test on 24 September 2025 was a Fail with major defects recorded against the offside front position lamp, both front coil springs fractured or broken, and the same registration plate lamp Minor. Before that, the vehicle passed in 2024 with only Minor headlamp lens defects noted, and earlier tests from 2020 through 2023 show either clean passes or minor and advisory items of a routine nature. The pattern suggests the vehicle has been reasonably well maintained overall, but the sudden appearance of fractured coil springs and a steering seepage advisory in 2025 warrants close attention, as both are age- and mileage-related wear items that can deteriorate quickly if not addressed promptly. With approximately 144,534 miles recorded over sixteen years, this Hilux is averaging around 9,000 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a working or utility vehicle of its age and aligns with what one would expect from a light commercial or recreational pickup. There are no unusually large gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of standing, and equally no indication of rapid mileage accumulation that would imply exceptionally hard use. The recorded annual mileage is consistent with regular driving duty, which means mechanical wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes is proportionate to the odometer reading rather than being disproportionately accelerated. At this mileage, the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components should still have meaningful service life remaining provided routine servicing has been carried out, though closer inspection of higher-mileage items such as clutch operation, turbo condition if applicable, and rear leaf spring wear would be prudent. The two fractured front coil springs recorded at the September 2025 test are a significant finding requiring immediate attention. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension, particularly over speed humps, uneven surfaces, or when turning into a driveway. Pay close attention to vehicle stance, as a broken or settled spring will often cause one corner to sit lower than the other, and the vehicle may handle unpredictably or feel loose through quick direction changes. The steering pipe seepage advisory should be inspected for any fresh fluid residue around the hose connections, and the rack and pinion area should be examined for contamination. When driving, watch for any groaning or whining from the power steering system, stiffness at low speed, or any sudden change in steering assistance, as a worsening seep can quickly develop into a leak requiring more extensive repair. Additionally, the 2020 test recorded a Dangerous failure for nearside front brake pads below 1.5 mm thickness, which although historical indicates that pad wear should be physically inspected on the current vehicle, with attention to disc condition, caliper sliding pin operation, and any binding or uneven pad wear. Beyond the recorded defects, a prospective buyer should undertake age-appropriate physical checks given this Hilux is now sixteen years old with substantial mileage. Inspect the tyres carefully for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age and UV exposure, even if the tread depth appears adequate, as rubber degrades over time regardless of mileage. Examine the underside and body panels, particularly the chassis rails, suspension mounting points, and around the load bed, for any signs of structural corrosion or surface rust typical of a working pickup. Check the condition of the brake discs for lipping or corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been stood unused for extended periods, and verify that the calipers are releasing cleanly without any binding. The 12V battery health should be assessed, as batteries of this age commonly fail without warning, and all fluid services should be verified including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil, with attention to the timing of the last change. Finally, confirm a complete service book history with documented evidence of cambelt replacement and regular oil changes, as the Hilux is a mechanically robust vehicle but still requires disciplined maintenance to remain dependable at this mileage and age.