2016 Volkswagen Caddy 1.6L Diesel · GD66 UDJ

Recurring issues with suspension components and braking system integrity define the mechanical profile of this Volkswagen Caddy. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent testing frequency, the recent MOT history shows a pattern of failures involving critical wear items, most notably the offside rear brake hose bulging under pressure which caused a failure on 19 September 2025. This follows a previous major failure in December 2022 regarding an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm bush. Although the vehicle passed its most recent test on that same date in 2025, the presence of a minor defect regarding a severely deteriorated nearside front inner drive shaft CV boot indicates that while the major braking issue was rectified, there is ongoing degradation in the drivetrain and suspension components. The vehicle has covered 100,778 miles over approximately ten years, representing an average annual accumulation of roughly 10,078 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical light-to-medium commercial or private use for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this mileage level suggests that components subject to repetitive stress, such as suspension bushes, drive shaft boots, and braking hardware, are reaching the end of their expected service life cycles. The steady mileage suggests the vehicle has not been subject to long periods of inactivity, which typically leads to different types of degradation, but rather continuous wear consistent with its recorded distance. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front-end geometry and drivetrain smoothness during a test drive. The history of worn lower arm rear bushes and the current advisory for a deteriorated nearside front inner drive shaft CV boot necessitates a close inspection of the steering feel and suspension response. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or rhythmic clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when traversing uneven road surfaces, as these are common symptoms of failing CV joints or worn suspension bushings. Any pulling to one side or uneven tyre wear could also indicate that the previous suspension repairs have not fully corrected the wheel alignment. Regarding the braking system, the recent failure of the offside rear brake hose should be verified as having been replaced with a new unit rather than merely repaired. During the test drive, the braking pedal should feel firm and consistent; any sponginess, a soft pedal feel, or vibration through the pedal under braking could indicate further issues within the hydraulic lines or calipers. Additionally, given the previous advisories concerning tyres wearing on the edges, the current condition of all four tyres should be inspected for uneven tread wear, which would serve as a secondary indicator of lingering suspension or alignment issues.