2014 Vauxhall Mokka 1.6L Petrol · FM14 AAV

The Vauxhall Mokka’s latest MOT test on 2026-05-21 resulted in a pass, though it revealed several persistent tyre wear advisories across all four tyres, each showing wear close to the legal limit with edge wear of 2mm. This pattern of recurring advisories—presented in the 2025 and 2026 tests but absent in the preceding three years—indicates either a gradual but consistent tyre wear progression or a more acute issue such as misalignment, uneven loading, or excessive camber angles. The absence of defects in the earlier MOTs suggests that while the tyre wear is a developing concern, it has not yet reached a critical stage that would have triggered a failure, but it warrants close monitoring. The overall maintenance trend is stable in terms of roadworthiness, with no failures, but the tyre advisories suggest that the vehicle’s suspension or wheel alignment may be contributing to this wear pattern. The recorded mileage of 68,920 miles for a 12-year-old Vauxhall Mokka is unusually low for its age, averaging just 5,743 miles annually—a rate that typically signifies either minimal operational use or prolonged periods of static storage. Such low mileage can mask wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids, as these often degrade more from standing than from driving. However, it also raises concerns about potential issues exacerbated by prolonged inactivity, such as corrosion on brake discs or calipers, suspension bushings drying out, or fluid leaks stagnating in the system. The absence of recent mileage spikes suggests no sudden, high-wear driving regime, but the vehicle’s age and low usage profile mean that calendar-based degradation—such as brake fluid drying out or engine oil thickening—could be more pronounced than one might expect from the recorded kilometres. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the tyres, suspension, and brakes, given the MOT advisories and the vehicle’s age. Inspect the tyres for signs of perishing or cracking in the sidewall, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as this can compromise structural integrity. During a test drive, listen for irregularities in the suspension, such as clunks or rattles from worn suspension bushes or coil springs, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate alignment or camber issues. The brake system should be examined for signs of corrosion on discs or calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods, as this can lead to binding or reduced braking effectiveness. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as low usage can accelerate its deterioration, and check for any fluid leaks around the engine bay, transmission, and undercarriage, which could indicate failing seals or components. Beyond the immediate checks, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive service review, particularly focusing on fluid servicing. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, brake fluid should be replaced every two years to prevent absorption of moisture, which can lead to corrosion and reduced performance. The engine oil and coolant should also be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, even if the vehicle hasn’t accumulated high mileage, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of usage. If the suspension or steering components are suspected of contributing to the tyre wear, a professional inspection of the alignment and camber settings is advisable. Lastly, ensure that the service book is up to date, as any recorded maintenance history will provide valuable context for the vehicle’s condition and any future maintenance needs. If the advisories persist or worsen during further testing, addressing the underlying cause—such as suspension misalignment or worn steering components—will be essential to prevent further tyre wear and potential road safety risks.