2016 Vauxhall Mokka 1.6L Petrol · LR66 PXM

The latest MOT inspection conducted on 1 May 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded. However, a closer examination of the recent testing trend reveals a period of instability and worsening mechanical condition in the months immediately preceding this pass. The failure on 24 April 2026 highlights significant deterioration in the front-end steering and suspension components, specifically regarding the ball joint dust covers on both front suspension arms and the nearside front track rod end. While the vehicle has since passed, the transition from advisories regarding worn suspension bushes in 2024 to actual major failures of steering and suspension seals in 2026 suggests that the front-end components are reaching the end of their serviceable life and have been subject to progressive wear. With a recorded mileage of 62,162 over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,216 miles per year. This represents relatively low annual usage, which is typical for a vehicle that may have been used for local commuting or short trips rather than long-distance motorway driving. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can lead to other specific issues. In this case, the low usage pattern aligns with the recurring advisories regarding tyre perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds tend to degrade due to age and environmental exposure rather than tread wear when a vehicle is driven infrequently. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the front suspension and steering during a test drive. Given the recent major failures of the ball joint dust covers and the previous advisories for worn suspension arm bushes, you should listen intently for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Such symptoms would indicate that the underlying joints or bushes have been compromised by dirt ingress or have reached a state of excessive movement. Furthermore, the history of windscreen wiper failures and windscreen damage suggests that visibility-related maintenance has been reactive; you should verify that the wiper blades provide a clean, streak-free sweep and that the windscreen is free from any chips or cracks that could compromise structural integrity or driver vision. Finally, the recurring advisories regarding tyre cracking and perishing since 2023 indicate that the rubber is ageing significantly. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, you must inspect the sidewalls and grooves of all four tyres for fine cracks or signs of hardening, as these can lead to sudden failure. The previous advisory for thin rear brake pads also necessitates a check of the current braking performance; listen for any squealing or grinding and feel for any pulsation through the pedal, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Given the low annual mileage, I also recommend verifying the service history to ensure that fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as these fluids degrade chemically even when the vehicle is not in frequent use.