2016 Vauxhall Mokka 1.6L Petrol · DF04 PAT

The most recent DVSA MOT test was conducted on 23 June 2026 and resulted in a Pass, with the only note being an advisory that certain components were obscured from view. This advisory is non-defective and is recorded where trim panels, engine covers, or undertrays prevent the tester from fully inspecting underlying items, and it does not indicate a mechanical concern in itself. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle has passed every MOT since 2020, with no structural or mechanical failures recorded since a single Dangerous failure in June 2020 relating to a nearside rear tyre bulge. Recent advisories are limited to the obscured components note for three consecutive years and a single worn front tyre advisory in 2021. The overall maintenance trend therefore appears stable, with no escalating pattern of defects and no repeat advisories on consumable or suspension items, which suggests the vehicle has been reasonably well maintained over the test cycle. The recorded mileage of 50,669 miles over approximately ten years equates to an annual average of around 5,067 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and points to either predominantly short local use or extended periods of standing. Low annual mileage can reduce wear on major drivetrain components such as the clutch, engine internals, and gearbox, but it simultaneously increases the risk of deterioration in items that degrade with time rather than use. Brake discs and calipers can corrode and seize from inactivity, tyre rubber can perish and crack on the sidewalls even when tread depth remains adequate, and the 12V battery is highly susceptible to sulphation and premature failure if the vehicle is left standing between infrequent journeys. Service intervals are also typically calendar-based as well as mileage-based, so it is important to confirm whether scheduled items such as brake fluid, coolant, and timing chain or cam belt servicing (where applicable) have been carried out regardless of the low odometer reading. A physical inspection should begin with a thorough examination of the tyres, paying close attention not only to tread depth but to sidewall condition, looking for any cracking, perishing, or bulging that could indicate age-related structural degradation, particularly given the 2020 Dangerous failure for a sidewall bulge on the rear tyre. The brake system should be inspected for any signs of caliper binding, such as uneven pad wear or localised disc corrosion pitting that may not have shown up on the rolling road brake test, and a test drive should include firm stops from higher speed to detect any brake shudder or pull. Listen for any suspension knocks or clonks over uneven surfaces, which could highlight worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or coil spring fatigue, all of which are common age-related concerns on the Mokka. Check that all fluid levels and condition, particularly brake fluid which is hygroscopic and degrades over time, are within service specification, and verify the presence of a complete service history with stamps matching both time and mileage intervals. Given the obscured components advisory appearing over three consecutive tests, it would be prudent to ask the seller to remove any aftermarket accessories or trim that may be preventing a full inspection, and to have an independent garage carry out a thorough pre-purchase inspection including the underside of the vehicle on a ramp. Verify the operation of all electrical items, including the infotainment system, climate control, and central locking, as low-mileage vehicles can develop intermittent faults from lack of use. Finally, ensure the 12V battery is load tested rather than merely voltage checked, as a battery showing surface voltage may still fail under cranking load if it has been subject to prolonged standing, and confirm the date stamp on the battery to determine whether replacement is imminent.