2014 Vauxhall Mokka 1.7L Diesel · AF64 NRO

The Vauxhall Mokka’s most recent MOT test on 2026-06-29 resulted in a pass, though it revealed persistent but non-critical issues that indicate a pattern of wear rather than outright neglect. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT in the last two years, the recurring advisories and minor failures—particularly the front suspension ball joints and track rod end dust covers—suggest a maintenance trend that is neither improving nor entirely stable. The 2026 test highlighted severe deterioration to the near-side front lower suspension ball joint dust cover and minor ingress protection failures on the track rod ends, alongside an oil leak that remains contained. This consistency in front suspension defects, coupled with the 2025 failure showing excessive wear to the offside front ball joint, implies that the suspension components are approaching critical limits, warranting proactive attention before further deterioration compromises steering stability or alignment. The recorded mileage of 106,476 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,873 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history does not suggest a single period of high-mileage accumulation or excessive wear, but rather a gradual progression of suspension and tyre-related issues that align with typical usage patterns. The absence of significantly higher mileage spikes could indicate either more measured driving habits or periods of stationary use, which may have exacerbated standing corrosion risks or accelerated fluid degradation. For a 12-year-old vehicle, this mileage profile is not unusually high but does not justify the absence of more pronounced wear in other systems, such as the drivetrain or exhaust, which might suggest either underutilisation or less rigorous maintenance. Given the recurring suspension advisories and tyre-related failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension components, focusing on the ball joints, track rod ends, and coil springs. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or turning sharply, as these could indicate loose or worn components. Inspect the steering wheel for excessive play or vibration, which may signal misalignment or binding calipers. The front ball joints should be checked for excessive play—more than 1mm of movement is cause for concern—and the track rod ends should be visually inspected for signs of excessive wear or binding. If the ball joints are confirmed to be worn beyond the DVSA’s advisory limits, replacement is strongly recommended within the next 1,000–1,500 miles to prevent steering instability or premature tyre wear. Additionally, the tyre history reveals significant wear and damage, with the offside rear tyre failing the MOT with tread below 1.6mm and showing signs of cracking or perishing, while the near-side rear tyre was heavily perished on the outer sidewall. Tyres of this age and condition should be replaced immediately, as cracked sidewalls increase the risk of sudden blowouts, and tread depth below 3mm poses serious safety hazards, particularly in wet conditions. The offside front tyre was also noted as worn close to the legal limit, suggesting uneven wear patterns that may indicate suspension or alignment issues. The buyer should replace all tyres to meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, ideally with new or at least recently renewed tyres, and verify that the vehicle’s alignment is correct to prevent further tyre degradation. The oil leak, while not excessive, should be addressed promptly to avoid further engine damage, as it may indicate a failing oil seal or gasket that could lead to increased oil consumption or contamination of the engine lubricant. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should check the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as standing vehicles can accelerate battery drain, and ensure all fluids—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation or contamination. If service records are available, verify that the last full service was performed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, particularly for the suspension components and fluids that degrade over time.