2017 Volkswagen Caddy 1.6L Diesel · KSR 284

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2017 Volkswagen Caddy shows a pass on 11 March 2026, but this follows a significant failure just one day prior. The failure history reveals a concerning trend regarding wear and tear, specifically concerning suspension components and tyre legality. While the vehicle passed in 2025 with no defects, the 2026 failure indicates a sudden lapse in maintenance, particularly with both front suspension arm bushes being excessively worn and front tyres falling below the legal tread depth limit. Although the vehicle has since been cleared, the recent presence of a dangerous defect and major suspension issues suggests that maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive, meaning the vehicle may have been driven on marginal components for some time. At 87,827 miles, the vehicle has covered an average of approximately 9,759 miles per year over its nine-year lifespan. This is considered typical usage for a light commercial vehicle of this type, suggesting it has been used regularly for its intended purpose rather than sitting idle for long periods. This consistent mileage profile is generally positive as it reduces the risk of age-related degradation from standing, such as brake seizure or fuel system contamination. However, the mileage is high enough that the vehicle is entering a phase where major wear items, such as timing belts, water pumps, and various suspension bushes, will likely require attention if they have not been replaced recently. Given the recent history of suspension and brake advisories, a thorough test drive is essential. You should listen closely for clunks, knocks, or creaks when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, which would indicate that the recently replaced front suspension bushes or the advisory offside rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joint are still problematic or were not fully addressed. Furthermore, the recurring advisories for worn brake pads and pitted rear discs between 2023 and 2024 suggest a pattern of deferred brake maintenance. During your inspection, check for any brake shudder under deceleration or a pulling sensation to one side, and visually inspect the discs for excessive corrosion or thinness. Finally, the 2023 advisory regarding an oil leak, though noted as not excessive, warrants close scrutiny. You should inspect the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle for signs of fresh weeping from the rocker cover, sump, or turbocharger seals. Because the vehicle has seen consistent use, you should also verify the service history to ensure oil and filter changes have been performed at regular intervals, as the recorded oil leak could indicate a seal is nearing the end of its service life. Check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking, and ensure that the recent tyre replacements have been carried out with high-quality rubber to maintain the vehicle's safety and handling characteristics.