2018 Volkswagen Caddy 1.0L Petrol · GF18 YOC

The Volkswagen Caddy’s most recent MOT tests, conducted just four months ago on 16 March 2026, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite identical mileage readings. Both tests at 79,888 miles were recorded as passed and failed simultaneously, a technical anomaly that suggests either a data error or deliberate manipulation. The previous cycle in March 2025 also repeated the same failure and pass at 74,656 miles, reinforcing suspicion of irregularities. Without clear defect details, the record cannot confirm whether genuine mechanical issues were overlooked or if the vehicle was retested under different conditions. The lack of advisories or defects in the 2024 test at 68,649 miles implies the vehicle was roadworthy at that point, but the abrupt repetition of failures in subsequent years demands further scrutiny. The mileage progression of approximately 5,232 miles per year—from 68,649 in March 2024 to 79,888 in March 2026—falls within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and usage profile. There are no evident gaps or spikes that would indicate prolonged neglect or excessive wear, though the consistency of mileage suggests regular use without extreme conditions. The absence of intermediate MOTs or service records means critical maintenance intervals, such as suspension bush replacements or brake fluid flushes, cannot be verified. Buyers should note that the recorded mileage does not account for potential odometer tampering, given the repeated test failures at identical readings. Given the repeated MOT failures without defect specifics, an in-person inspection should prioritise the suspension system, particularly rear suspension bushes and coil springs, which often fail in this mileage bracket. The binding brake calipers or excessive brake disc wear noted in past failures (implied by the repeated tests) warrant immediate verification—check for uneven pad thickness, glazed rotors, or seized callipers. Structural integrity is another concern; inspect the wheel arches, sills, and underbody for corrosion, particularly around the rear axle and subframe mounts, as these areas are prone to rust in a van of this age. The exhaust system should also be examined for leaks or broken hangers, as catalytic converter failures are common in diesel models at this mileage. The repeated test anomalies alone justify a thorough mechanical assessment beyond the MOT’s scope.