2017 Volkswagen Amarok 3.0L Diesel · GA55 AXE

The latest MOT test for the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok was conducted on 2026-02-17, resulting in a pass with several advisories rather than outright failures. This indicates that while the vehicle meets the minimum roadworthiness standards, there are persistent issues that may require attention to prevent further wear or potential failure. The trend in the MOT history shows stability over the past five years, with no recorded defects until the most recent test, where the advisories—all related to tyre wear—were noted. This suggests that while the vehicle has been maintained in a way that avoids major mechanical failures, the wear on tyres has reached a critical stage, particularly on all four positions, which is unusual for a vehicle of this age and mileage unless there is significant underinflation, misalignment, or uneven loading. The absence of failures in prior MOTs implies that the current advisories may be the result of cumulative wear rather than immediate or systemic issues. The recorded mileage of 121,471 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 13,497 miles per year, which is notably elevated for an Amarok of this age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components such as the suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and consumables like fluids and filters. The lack of significant gaps in the MOT history suggests that the vehicle has been driven regularly, which may explain the rapid tyre wear observed. High-mileage vehicles often exhibit signs of excessive stress on components like coil springs, suspension bushes, and brake calipers, which can lead to premature failure if not addressed. Additionally, the consistent annual mileage implies that the vehicle may have been subjected to more demanding operating conditions, such as off-road use, heavy loads, or frequent stop-and-go traffic, all of which contribute to accelerated wear. Given the advisories on tyre wear, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the tread depth and overall condition. The nearside and offside front and rear tyres are worn close to the legal limit and exhibit edge wear, which can indicate alignment issues, underinflation, or excessive camber angles. On a test drive, listen for signs of uneven tyre wear, such as clunking noises from the rear or a pulling sensation from the front, which may suggest misalignment or suspension component failure. The buyer should also verify that the tyres are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, as underinflation is a common cause of edge wear. Beyond tyres, the advisories on the registration plate suggest that the vehicle may have been exposed to prolonged standing in conditions that accelerate corrosion, particularly on metal components like the plate. Check for signs of rust or corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and any exposed metal parts, as standing corrosion can compromise structural integrity if left unaddressed. For the broader mechanical condition of the vehicle, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the suspension system, brakes, and drivetrain due to the high mileage. Inspect the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes for signs of wear, such as excessive play, cracking, or leakage of hydraulic fluid from shock absorbers. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate failing suspension components. The brakes should be examined for signs of excessive heat discolouration on discs, warping, or binding calipers, which can result from prolonged use or standing. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as brake fluid degrades over time and can lead to reduced braking performance if replaced within the recommended service interval. Additionally, given the age of the vehicle, the 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power, especially in cold weather or under heavy loads. Finally, consider verifying the service history for fluid changes, particularly the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these should have been replaced in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which for the Amarok typically include intervals of around 60,000 to 100,000 miles for oil changes depending on driving conditions. If the vehicle has not been serviced recently, a professional inspection to confirm the condition of these fluids and filters is advisable.