2018 Volkswagen T-ROC 1.5L Petrol · AM55 CAP

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-21 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive shift in the vehicle’s roadworthiness status after a failure on 2025-01-20 where tyre tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm was recorded offside and nearside front tyres. Prior to this, the vehicle maintained a consistent MOT history with no defects until 2024, indicating a stable maintenance record until the tyre-related failure. While the advisories from 2024 and 2023—particularly regarding brake disc wear, thin brake pads, and tyre cracking—suggest some wear progression over time, the absence of these issues in the latest test suggests either corrective action was taken or the severity of these conditions has reduced. The overall trend is cautiously optimistic, though vigilance remains necessary to address the persistent brake and tyre advisories before they escalate into failures. The recorded mileage of 87,640 miles for an eight-year-old T-Roc represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,955 miles per year, which is typical for this vehicle class. Such mileage does not inherently indicate excessive wear unless combined with high-performance driving or aggressive use, but it does imply moderate to heavy usage over the vehicle’s lifespan. The consistency of the mileage suggests the owner has maintained regular driving habits rather than long periods of inactivity, which could otherwise exacerbate issues like standing corrosion, fluid degradation, or suspension wear. However, without further data on specific driving conditions—such as towing, off-road use, or frequent stop-and-go traffic—it is difficult to pinpoint any accelerated wear patterns. The stability in mileage accumulation is reassuring but should be balanced against the advisories present in the MOT history, particularly those related to brake and tyre components. Given the advisories recorded in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the front and rear brake discs for signs of excessive wear, pitting, or scoring that could compromise stopping performance. Listen for any abnormal brake pedal feel, such as sponginess or binding, which may indicate caliper binding, warped discs, or worn brake pads. During a test drive, monitor for a pull to one side when braking, which could signal uneven disc wear or misalignment. Additionally, check the rear brake pads for thinness or glazing, as these conditions can lead to reduced friction and increased heat buildup. If the brake discs appear significantly worn or pitted, consider replacing them before they reach critical levels, as this can prevent failure and maintain road safety. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should also examine the tyres for further degradation beyond the minor cracking noted in previous MOTs. Inspect the sidewall for signs of perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of blowouts. Check the tread depth more thoroughly than the MOT test, as the failure in 2025 highlighted a critical shortfall. Ensure the tyres are evenly worn, as uneven wear patterns may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressures. For the tyres themselves, consider rotating them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear, and top up the tread depth to at least 3mm if possible. While the vehicle’s mileage is not excessively high, the age of the tyres—especially if they have been in use for several years—should be factored into future replacement planning, as tyres degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history includes all scheduled maintenance, such as fluid changes (oil, brake fluid, coolant) and suspension inspections, as these are critical for long-term reliability. Given the vehicle’s age, fluids should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first, to prevent corrosion and mechanical failure. Additionally, check the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as standing vehicles can drain batteries over time, and ensure the battery terminals are clean and securely fastened.