2013 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0L Diesel · FV13 YAG

Brake disc wear dominates the MOT record, with advisories appearing each year from 2020 onward and a major failure recorded in November 2024 when the off‑side front inner disc was judged “significantly and obviously worn”. The failure was rectified, as the subsequent 2025 test passed without defects, indicating that the disc (and likely the associated pads) has been replaced or brought within acceptable limits. Alongside the brake issues, the vehicle has also shown intermittent suspension wear – notably an excessive off‑side front lower arm bush failure in 2021 – but no further failures have been logged since that date. At 66,970 mi the car averages just over 5,000 mi per year, well below the typical usage for a thirteen‑year‑old vehicle. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or storage, which can exacerbate corrosion in components such as coil springs and suspension bushings, as reflected by the 2021 advisory on a corroded rear coil spring. The modest mileage does not guarantee low wear on age‑sensitive items; brake discs and pads can deteriorate simply with time and exposure, and tyre tread can age even if the tread depth remains acceptable. For a prospective buyer, a thorough brake inspection is essential. Verify that the front discs – both inner and outer – have been resurfaced or replaced to meet the minimum thickness specifications, and confirm that the pads are not near the wear limit. During a test drive, listen for any high‑pitched squeal or low‑frequency grinding when applying the brakes, feel for pedal pulsation that could indicate warped discs, and check that the vehicle pulls straight under braking. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear, especially on the near‑side front outer and rear outer positions that were flagged as close to the legal limit; any cracking, sidewall bulges or tread loss beyond the advisory should be addressed before purchase. The suspension and chassis also merit close attention. The 2021 failure of the off‑side front lower arm bush suggests that the wishbone bush may have been replaced, but the near‑side lower arm still carries a lingering advisory. While driving, note any clunking or knocking over bumps, steering wander, or a feeling of looseness in the front end, which would point to worn bushes or deteriorated bushings. Examine the rear coil spring for surface rust or signs of compromised integrity, as corrosion can weaken spring performance. Finally, a visual check for any rust on the subframe or mounting points will help confirm that the vehicle has not suffered structural degradation during its low‑usage periods.