2017 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · GD17 EPZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 28 November 2025 resulted in a pass, which is reassuring, however the accompanying advisories indicate that the vehicle is now due for a number of progressive maintenance items. Reviewing the recent history, the trend is broadly stable rather than worsening, as the car has passed each annual test since the dangerous brake pad failures of 2021 and 2022, but a clear pattern of rear brake wear has been developing over consecutive tests, with disc pitting and scoring on the rear axle flagged in 2024 and 2025, and rear pad wear now noted at the most recent assessment. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp fault recorded as a major failure in November 2024 is a point that should be specifically investigated, as it was clearly rectified before the 2025 re-test, but any history of an airbag or SRS light can have lingering implications and should be confirmed as fully resolved with a diagnostic scan. Overall, the test record suggests a vehicle that is being maintained to a minimum standard but which is approaching the point at which several wear items will simultaneously require attention. With a recorded mileage of 111,281 miles over approximately nine years, the vehicle is averaging around 12,365 miles per year, which is notably above the typical usage rate for a van of this age and points to consistent commercial or high-mileage private use. The MOT history shows annual tests every year since 2021 with no significant gaps or unexplained jumps in mileage, suggesting the odometer reading is consistent and the vehicle has been in regular service. Higher annual mileages such as this accelerate wear on service items including brake components, clutches, dual mass flywheels, suspension bushes and CV joints, and the recorded brake issues correlate well with that usage profile. There is no evidence of long periods of standing, which removes some age-related concerns but places greater emphasis on mechanical fatigue. The recurring advisories on the rear brake discs, now present for at least two consecutive tests, indicate that the discs are unlikely to be serviceable for much longer, particularly as the pads have also been noted as wearing thin at the latest test. A prospective buyer should inspect both rear discs for lipping, scoring and corrosion pitting, and budget for replacement of the rear brake disc and pad set in the near term. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder or vibration under light or firm pedal pressure, as scored rear discs often produce a pulsating sensation through the pedal, and check for any rear brake binding that could cause uneven pad wear or a dragging sensation when the vehicle is released. The advisories on the offside and nearside front suspension arm pins or bushes being worn are also significant, as these components affect steering precision and tyre wear patterns. On test, listen for clonks or knocks over speed bumps, kerbs or rough surfaces, and inspect the inner and outer edges of the front tyres for uneven wear which would confirm excess movement in the rear-most bushes. Given the mileage and age, a thorough physical inspection should also extend beyond the MOT-recorded items. The front brake discs, which were first noted as pitted in 2021, should be checked for wear and re-surfacing capability, as they are likely approaching replacement by now. With nine years of service, the timing belt or cam belt interval must be confirmed against Volkswagen's schedule, the 12V battery tested for cranking performance and state of charge, and all fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and automatic or manual transmission fluid checked for condition and replacement history, as these degrade over calendar years as well as mileage. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at mounting points and the rear silencer, check all tyres including the spare for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing regardless of tread depth, and look for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. A jacking inspection to examine the underside for corrosion, driveshaft gaiter integrity and any signs of fluid leaks from the rear axle area would also be strongly advisable, and where possible a Volkswagen-compatible diagnostic read would confirm that the previously flagged SRS warning lamp fault has been completely cleared and is not storing any latent codes.