2016 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0L Diesel · LO66 DND

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Volkswagen Sharan, conducted on 23rd October 2025, resulted in a passing grade, with two advisories noted: rear tyres exhibiting signs of cracking or perishing, and offside front suspension arm wear that, while not severe enough to affect roadworthiness, indicates potential long-term movement or misalignment. The pattern of MOT results over the past six years shows a consistent trend of passing tests with minor advisories rather than failures, suggesting a generally stable maintenance history. However, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly on suspension components, brake systems, and tyres—demonstrates areas requiring closer attention to prevent escalation into more serious defects. The absence of failures in the intervening years does not negate the need for proactive servicing, as these advisories often signal wear progression that could compromise safety if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 142,712 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a high annual usage rate of around 14,271 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components such as suspension bushes, brake pads, tyres, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the MOT advisories. The lack of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active use, potentially subjecting it to more frequent stress cycles that could exacerbate wear patterns. While high mileage alone does not inherently indicate mechanical failure, it does necessitate heightened vigilance during inspection, particularly in areas prone to fatigue—such as suspension linkages, brake components, and tyre integrity—where cumulative stress can lead to premature component failure. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the rear tyres, which show signs of perishing in the latest MOT. Look for cracks or delamination in the sidewall, which can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. On a test drive, listen for irregularities in tyre noise, particularly if one side exhibits uneven wear, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The offside front suspension arm advisories warrant attention to the condition of the arm pin or bush; signs of excessive play or clunking noises when driving over bumps suggest wear that could lead to misalignment or steering instability. Inspect the front suspension for signs of oil leaks around bushings or corroded fasteners, and check for uneven ride height, which may indicate spring or strut failure. Additionally, the brake system advisories—particularly the thin front brake pads and worn rear brake discs—demonstrate that the braking components have undergone significant use. During a test drive, pay close attention to brake pedal feel; a spongy or soft pedal could indicate air in the brake lines or worn master cylinder seals, while a shuddering or pulsating sensation may signal warped brake discs or uneven pad wear. Inspect the brake discs for pitting, scoring, or corrosion, and check for binding calipers that may require lubrication or adjustment. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is prudent to verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged standing or high mileage can accelerate internal degradation. Test the battery’s charge capacity and listen for unusual noises when starting, which may indicate failing connections or internal faults. Finally, check the fluid levels and condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every two years or 60,000 miles for brake fluid, and annually for coolant. The passenger door dent and registration plate deterioration are non-mechanical advisories but should be noted for cosmetic and legal compliance reasons.