2018 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · FL68 WPA

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 February 2026 resulted in a Pass, indicating that the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of test. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the Volkswagen Caddy has maintained an unbroken sequence of passes dating back to October 2021, with no failures, refusals, or recorded dangerous or major defects. The recorded defects over this period are predominantly advisory, with the only Minor item being an under-inflated front tyre in 2024. The recurrence of brake pad wear advisories at both the front and rear in the most recent test, following a similar advisory on the front pads in 2021, suggests a steady but expected consumable wear pattern consistent with the high annual mileage rather than any underlying mechanical concern. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with the vehicle presenting as well-maintained within the parameters of a high-use light commercial application. With approximately 140,624 miles recorded on an eight-year-old vehicle, the annual mileage of around 17,578 miles is notably high and points to consistent, hard working use typical of a Caddy operated for commercial or fleet purposes. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged standing, and the steady accumulation of mileage implies that mechanical components are subject to continuous wear rather than the corrosion and deterioration often associated with low-use vehicles. This level of usage places above-average demand on the braking system, clutch, suspension components, drivetrain mounts, and engine ancillaries, and any prospective buyer should be mindful that intervals between servicing and replacement of wear items will be shorter than on a lower-mileage equivalent. The relatively uneventful MOT history despite this demanding usage profile is a positive indicator of the vehicle's underlying mechanical condition. Given the recurring brake pad wear advisories at both front and rear, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the entire braking system prior to purchase. The advisories in February 2026 indicate that pads were approaching the end of their service life at that point, and with further mileage accumulated in the intervening months, replacement is highly likely to be due imminently. On a test drive, listen for any brake squeal or grinding noise on light application, feel for shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under braking which may indicate disc wear or warping, and check for any pulling to one side which could suggest a sticking caliper. Inspect the brake discs visually for lipping, scoring, or corrosion around the outer edge, and verify that the caliper slides move freely without seizing, a known issue on high-mileage Caddys. Additionally, the 2022 advisories relating to worn rear anti-roll bar pins or bushes warrant careful attention; these components contribute to vehicle stability and handling, and on a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks over uneven surfaces, speed humps, or during sharp direction changes, which would indicate that the bushes have worn beyond acceptable limits and now require replacement. Beyond the recorded advisories, a high-mileage vehicle of this age should be subjected to several age and usage-appropriate physical checks that fall outside the MOT scope. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur with age regardless of tread depth, and verify that the fitting date codes indicate rubber no older than six years. Check the condition of the 12 volt battery and its state of charge, as commercial vehicles frequently undertake many short journeys that prevent full charging and accelerate battery degradation. Verify the date of the last coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil change, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, while coolant degrades over time and can lead to internal corrosion if neglected. Examine the underside for any oil or fluid leaks from the engine, gearbox, or differential, paying particular attention to areas around the rear main crankshaft seal and driveshaft gaiters. Finally, confirm that the service book or digital service record contains regular entries at intervals appropriate to the high usage, ideally every 12 months or 12,000 miles, and review the timing belt or cam belt replacement history, as on a high-mileage TSI or TDI engine of this age, renewal at the correct interval is essential to prevent catastrophic engine damage.