1987 Volkswagen Caravelle 1.9L Petrol · E861 SBU

The vehicle is currently unroadworthy following a failed MOT in early June 2026. The most recent test on 2 June 2026 at 140,005 miles revealed multiple critical failures regarding the drivetrain and a faulty main beam tell-tale. This indicates a worsening trend in mechanical maintenance, as previously deteriorated constant velocity boots identified in the 2024 and 2025 tests have now fully split across all three inner and outer rear drive shaft joints. The mileage profile is consistently low for a 39-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,600 miles per year. Between April 2023 and June 2026, the van covered 2,531 miles, moving from 137,474 to 140,005 miles. While this low usage suggests limited mechanical wear, it indicates that the vehicle has suffered from degradation of rubber-based components, as evidenced by perished tyres and play in the wheel bearings noted during the May 2024 test. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the entire drivetrain and suspension. The history shows a recurring failure of constant velocity boots and wheel bearings, which suggests that seals and grease are failing due to age rather than distance. The 2024 failure for structural tyre tears and perishing highlights a risk of oxidised rubber despite the low mileage. Additionally, the failure of the main beam tell-tale requires an electrical check of the circuit to ensure the safety indicator is functional before the vehicle returns to the road.