2016 Volkswagen Amarok 2.0L Diesel · LM65 AAK

The most recent DVSA MOT on 16 July 2025 recorded a pass with no defects noted, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions requirements at that time. However, the MOT record over the past six years shows a pattern of recurring advisories – notably the parking‑brake efficiency consistently “just met” the minimum, repeated off‑side front shock‑absorber oil misting, and intermittent brake‑binding advisories – suggesting that while the vehicle has been kept roadworthy, underlying wear items have not been fully rectified and the maintenance trend is mixed rather than clearly improving. At 130,580 mi for a 2016 Amarok the average annual mileage works out to roughly 13 000 mi, which is above the typical 8‑10 000 mi per year expected for a light‑commercial vehicle of this age. The higher utilisation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyre tread, brake discs and pads, suspension bushings and engine oil seals, and it also increases the likelihood of fatigue in the chassis and drivetrain components. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would indicate long periods of storage, so the wear is likely to be cumulative rather than the result of intermittent use. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the parking‑brake system; a brake that only just meets efficiency can be symptomatic of stretched cables, worn shoes or a need for adjustment, and a marginal brake may feel soft or require a longer pedal travel when applied. The near‑side rear brake binding noted in 2023 and the off‑side rear brake binding recorded in 2020 should be checked for sticking calipers or warped drums, as binding can produce a shudder or uneven braking feel and may lead to premature pad wear. The off‑side front shock absorber’s light oil misting, repeatedly flagged from 2020 to 2022, points to possible seal degradation; a compromised shock can cause a noticeable clunk over bumps, reduced ride comfort and uneven tyre wear, so a visual inspection of the shock boots and a bounce test are advisable. The front brake disc advisory from 2020, describing pitting or scoring, should be verified – excessive disc wear can manifest as pulsation under heavy braking and may require resurfacing or replacement. Additionally, the windscreen washer insufficiency and wiper inefficacy recorded in 2021 and 2024 should be confirmed functional, as poor visibility aids are a safety concern, and the non‑working central stop lamp noted in 2022 must be rectified to meet lighting regulations. Beyond the MOT‑recorded items, the vehicle’s age warrants checks for age‑related deterioration. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulges, as rubber can perish even on low‑mileage tyres that have sat for years. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify its cranking voltage, especially if the vehicle has been idle for extended periods. Look for signs of corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and underbody, which can be exacerbated by the Amarok’s off‑road use. Verify that the service book contains regular oil, filter and fluid changes, as time‑based degradation of brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil can occur regardless of mileage. A thorough test‑drive should include listening for any abnormal noises from the drivetrain, checking for smooth gear shifts, confirming that the steering is free of play, and ensuring that all lighting functions, including the central stop lamp, operate correctly before committing to purchase.