2018 Volkswagen Caddy 1.0L Petrol · GD18 LUZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Volkswagen Caddy was conducted on 2026-06-23 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failure on 2026-06-17, where front brake imbalance across an axle was recorded as a major defect. This indicates a shift towards stability in the vehicle’s roadworthiness, though the brake-related issues from the 2022 MOT remain a persistent concern. The earlier failures—particularly the critical rear brake pad thickness below the legal minimum—highlight a pattern of brake system wear that has not been fully resolved, suggesting either ongoing or unresolved mechanical challenges. The absence of further major defects in the last two MOTs is encouraging, but the buyer should remain vigilant regarding the brake system’s long-term condition. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,058 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,507 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for an eight-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but it does imply regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity. Higher mileage can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids, while lower mileage might indicate less exposure to stress, though standing for extended periods can still lead to issues such as brake disc corrosion or fluid degradation. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT history suggests the vehicle has been driven consistently, which may mitigate some wear-related risks but does not eliminate the need for proactive maintenance. Given the recurring advisories and past failures, particularly around the brakes and tyre condition, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the following components. First, verify the brake system’s health by checking for uneven brake pad wear, which could indicate misalignment or binding calipers. Listen for any abnormal brake pedal feel—such as pulsation, sponginess, or excessive travel—during a test drive, as these symptoms may signal warped discs or internal brake failure. Inspect the brake discs for signs of glazing, scoring, or excessive thickness loss, and examine the pads for consistent wear across all four corners. The nearside rear brake pads failing the 2022 MOT to below 1.5 mm thickness necessitate immediate replacement, and the thin pads on the front and rear axles suggest further wear is imminent. Additionally, test the vehicle’s braking performance under various conditions, including hard stops and gradual deceleration, to ensure consistent stopping power. For the tyres, the nearside front tyre showing cracking or perishing in the 2025 MOT advisory is a critical concern, particularly given the vehicle’s age. Tyres over eight years old, even with moderate tread depth, can develop sidewall cracking due to ozone exposure and material degradation, which compromises structural integrity and increases the risk of sudden failure. The buyer should replace this tyre immediately, as cracked sidewalls cannot be repaired and pose a significant safety hazard. Check the remaining tyres for similar signs of perishing, uneven wear patterns, or tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6 mm. Rotate the tyres regularly to ensure even wear, and monitor for any signs of bulges or blisters, which may indicate internal tyre damage. Lastly, address the nearside rear light unit and offside front position lamps that failed in 2024, as these defects are straightforward to rectify and prevent further MOT issues. Ensure all bulbs are functional, and inspect the wiring harnesses for any signs of wear or damage that could lead to future failures.