2005 Daihatsu Extol 1.3L Petrol · WF55 FHB

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile with a clear trend of worsening structural and mechanical neglect. While it passed its last MOT in November 2023 at 178,905 miles, this followed a major failure just two months prior that revealed critical structural defects. The excessive corrosion on the sill and suspension component mounting areas indicates that the integrity of the chassis is compromised. Although the immediate failures were addressed, the recurring nature of these issues suggests the vehicle is reaching the end of its practical life. At 21 years old, the recorded 178,905 miles average out to approximately 8,500 miles per year, which is consistent with typical UK usage patterns. However, there is a significant three-year data gap between the February 2019 test at 164,669 miles and the April 2022 test at 177,698 miles. This gap suggests a period of lower use or lapsed maintenance which likely allowed the deterioration of rubber components and accelerated corrosion to go undetected. The vehicle has covered relatively little distance mileage since the last recorded test. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and underbody, specifically focusing on the sills and suspension mounting points. The 2022 record noted multiple layers of underseal over repair areas, which is often a tactic to mask active rust rather than treat it. Attention should be paid to the offside rear wheel bearing, which showed signs of play in 2023, and the power steering system, which previously leaked. The history of binding brake calipers and corroded brake pipes suggests that the braking hydraulic system requires a close- to ensure no further degradation has occurred since the last inspection. Given the age of the vehicle, the failure of the nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover in late 2023 indicates that various rubber components are failing due to age and exposure.