2014 Dodge Grand Caravan 3.6L Petrol · AX63 LCF

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan was conducted on 2024-11-12, resulting in a passing outcome with a single advisory. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs over the preceding four years, indicating a generally stable maintenance history without any recurring failures or severe defects. The absence of repeated advisories or failures suggests that the vehicle has been managed reasonably well, though the presence of the nearside front outer tyre advisory—indicating wear approaching the legal limit—demands closer attention to prevent potential roadworthiness issues in the near term. The offside rear shock absorber misting noted in 2022 remains a minor but persistent advisory, which could signal early wear or fluid degradation in that specific suspension component, warranting further inspection if the vehicle is driven frequently. The recorded mileage of 99,939 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,328 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this type of vehicle. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or lighter use, potentially leading to accelerated wear in consumables like fluids, seals, and standing components such as brakes or suspension. Conversely, higher-than-average mileage would accelerate wear on suspension bushes, drivetrain components, and brake systems, but 99,939 miles is not excessively high for a 12-year-old vehicle, particularly if the vehicle has been maintained with regular servicing. The consistent mileage progression suggests steady use rather than rapid wear-out, but the advisory on the nearside front tyre highlights the importance of monitoring tyre wear patterns, as uneven or edge wear can indicate alignment or camber issues that may worsen over time. Given the recent MOT advisory on the nearside front outer tyre, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of all tyres, focusing on sidewall condition, tread depth, and signs of uneven wear. The tyre should be checked for cracks or perishing in the sidewall, which can compromise structural integrity, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. On a test drive, listen for signs of excessive tyre noise or vibration, which may indicate misalignment or improper mounting. The offside rear shock absorber misting advisory should prompt a visual inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear lower arms and bushings, for signs of excessive play or oil leakage. Listen for clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, as this can indicate worn suspension components or damaged coil springs. If the vehicle exhibits a soft or unstable ride, further diagnostic work may be required to assess the condition of the shock absorbers and struts. For practical checks beyond the MOT advisories, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service history, ensuring that routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups have been conducted at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12-volt battery should be tested for capacity and corrosion on the terminals, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing brake fluid can degrade over time, leading to reduced braking performance. The exhaust system should be examined for leaks or excessive emissions, though the DVSA does not test exhaust emissions in MOTs, so this should be verified through a professional inspection. Finally, the vehicle’s steering and alignment should be checked for any signs of play or excessive wear, as this can indicate misalignment or damaged steering components, which may not have been flagged in the MOT but could affect handling and safety.