2018 Isuzu Trucks Grafter N35.150 3.0L Diesel · TF03 WEL

The most recent DVSA examination on 14 May 2026 recorded a PASS, with only a minor advisory noting damage to the central front upper windscreen that does not adversely affect the driver's view. Looking back over the recorded test history, the overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, though a pattern of minor oil seepage from the engine area has been flagged as an advisory across multiple consecutive tests from 2022 through 2025. Aside from this recurring oil weft, the only other advisory items relate to front brake pad wear in 2022 and an inner front tyre noted as worn close to the legal limit on the offside in 2023. There have been no recorded failures, no corrosion advisories, and no structural concerns, which collectively suggests the vehicle has been kept in reasonable working order throughout its MOT-tested period, albeit with ongoing attention required to engine sealing integrity. With 109,140 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Isuzu Grafer is averaging around 13,642 miles per annum, which is notably high for a commercial vehicle of this age and indicates sustained, regular operational use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing history and the annual test dates remain consistent from 2021 through 2026, suggesting continuous service rather than extended periods off the road. This level of annual mileage will have placed proportionate wear on all major mechanical consumables, including brake friction materials, tyres, suspension components, clutch assembly, and drivetrain bearings. While higher usage can be beneficial in keeping seals lubricated and preventing corrosion from standing, it accelerates wear on components that are mileage-dependent, and any prospective buyer should anticipate that major service items such as timing components, turbocharger servicing, or clutch replacement may be approaching or already due. Given the recurring engine oil leak advisories recorded in 2022, 2023, and 2025, a thorough under-bonnet inspection is strongly advised before purchase. The buyer should examine the engine sump, rocker cover gasket, front and rear crankshaft seals, and any turbocharger oil feed or return lines for fresh seepage or staining, and check the oil level on the dipstick to confirm it is within the safe operating zone. On a test drive, listen for any top-end engine rattle that might suggest worn valve train components, and watch the oil pressure warning light carefully during cold-start. The 2022 advisories also noted thin front brake pads and slight excess travel in the brake slack adjuster, both of which are maintenance items that would typically have been addressed in subsequent servicing but warrant confirmation. A test drive should include firm pedal applications to check for brake shudder, pulling to either side, or any sponginess in the pedal, and the handbrake lever travel should be checked for excessive movement consistent with the previously noted adjuster issue. Beyond the recorded defects, a high-mileage commercial vehicle of this age and profile requires a full assessment of age-related and mileage-related wear items that may not yet have triggered an MOT failure or notice. The tyres should be inspected not only for tread depth but also for sidewall cracking, perishing, and uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension geometry issues, particularly given the 2023 advisory on inner edge wear. The suspension, including coil springs, dampers, anti-roll bar bushes, and drop links, should be checked for any knocking, clonking, or uneven ride height, as commercial vehicles frequently suffer premature wear on these components due to load carrying. Brake discs should be examined for lipping, scoring, or corrosion, especially given the vehicle's likely urban or stop-start duty cycle, and the 12V battery condition should be verified as commercial vehicles often suffer repeated deep discharge cycles from auxiliary equipment. Finally, confirm that time-based services such as coolant replacement, brake fluid renewal, and power steering or gearbox oil changes have been carried out at manufacturer-recommended intervals, and verify the service book stamping history to ensure the high recorded mileage has been supported by appropriate routine maintenance.