2017 Volkswagen Caravelle 2.0L Diesel · KX17 VGG

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The most recent test on 13 August 2025 at 108,248 miles secured a pass only after a failure just five miles prior. That failure identified excessively worn nearside and offside front anti-roll bar bushes, alongside an illuminated TPMS warning. While the oil leak noted during the pass was deemed not excessive, the presence of these suspension faults suggests that components are only being addressed once they reach failure limits. The vehicle has covered 108,248 miles over nine years, averaging approximately 12,000 miles per year. This represents consistent high usage for a commercial vehicle, which accelerates the wear on heavy-duty components. A significant mileage spike occurred between August 2023 (72,693 miles) and August 2024 (91,316 miles), where the vehicle covered nearly 19,000 miles in a single year. The subsequent interval saw another 17,000 miles covered, indicating the van is used for long-distance travel that places constant strain on the drivetrain and braking system. A buyer must physically inspect the front-end suspension and braking system. The records from 2023 and 2024 consistently flagged multiple tyres worn to the legal limit or with uneven edges, which often indicates alignment issues or worn shock absorbers. The front brake pads were noted as thin in 2024, and the exhaust leak from 2023 requires a check for structural corrosion or manifold integrity. Given the oil leak identified in 2025, the engine bay should be monitored to ensure the leak does not originate from a failing gasket or seal that could lead to catastrophic engine failure under high-mileage conditions.