2014 Vauxhall Mokka 1.7L Diesel · GL14 CFG

The most recent MOT test on the Vauxhall Mokka, conducted on 2026-05-20, resulted in a passing grade with a single advisory related to a minor exhaust leak of exhaust gases, which is a routine issue often caused by wear in the exhaust manifold or pipework gaskets. While this advisory is not a failure, it indicates a potential area of concern that should be addressed promptly to prevent increased emissions or structural damage to the exhaust system. The overall maintenance trend over the past four years shows a pattern of stability, with only one failure recorded in 2023—both of which were critical issues (brake pads and tyres)—followed by a period of consistent passing tests. However, the presence of recurring advisories, particularly those related to suspension ball joints and rear brake pad wear, suggests that routine maintenance may have been insufficient to mitigate wear progression over time. The vehicle’s history also includes a major failure in 2021 due to a missing rear road wheel fixing, which highlights the importance of ensuring all mechanical and structural components are securely fitted, especially on high-mileage vehicles. The Vauxhall Mokka’s recorded mileage of 79,938 miles at the time of inspection represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,662 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and model. This mileage level does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is typical for a 12-year-old car, but it does warrant careful consideration of how the vehicle was maintained, particularly during periods of low usage. The absence of significant mileage spikes between MOT tests suggests that the car was not subjected to extreme driving conditions or heavy loads, which could have accelerated wear on components like brakes, suspension, and tyres. However, the vehicle’s history of minor and major failures, including those related to suspension ball joints and brake pad wear, indicates that some components may have been neglected or not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to progressive deterioration. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system and braking components, given the recurring advisories and failure history. The severely deteriorated ball joint dust covers from the 2025 MOT test suggest that the suspension arms and track rod ends are nearing or have exceeded their service life, which can lead to excessive play in the steering rack, uneven tyre wear, and potential steering instability. During a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps, and check for excessive steering play or vibration. The offside rear brake pads having failed the MOT with less than 1.5 mm of friction material remaining indicate that the braking system is critically worn, which could result in reduced stopping performance, brake fade, or even brake failure under heavy loads. Inspect the rear brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or corrosion, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could signal metal-to-metal contact if the pads are not replaced soon. Additionally, the missing rear road wheel fixing from 2021 underscores the need to verify that all wheel nuts are securely tightened and that the wheel studs are undamaged, as improperly fitted wheels can lead to safety hazards. Beyond the mechanical checks, the Vauxhall Mokka’s age and mileage warrant a thorough inspection of consumables and components that degrade over time, regardless of usage. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Check the tyre tread depth for uniform wear, particularly on the offside rear tyre that failed the MOT with a ply damage, as uneven wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues. The exhaust advisory should prompt a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural damage, as well as a check for excessive carbon monoxide levels if the car is driven frequently. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage and charge retention, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as standing corrosion or electrical drain can lead to failure. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time even with moderate mileage. Check the service book for any recorded intervals or perform a visual inspection of fluid levels and condition, ensuring that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, which can affect braking performance. If the vehicle has been driven sparingly or stored for long periods, also verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture or sediment, which can cause starting issues or engine problems.