2022 Volkswagen ID3 Life Electric · LR72 UPB

Tyre wear is the dominant mechanical theme in this Volkswagen ID.3's short MOT record, with the most recent test on 23 May 2026 recording two advisories for nearside front and offside rear tyres worn close to the legal limit on their edges. These advisories, alongside a dangerous failure on 28 May 2025 for a nearside rear tyre with tread depth below the 1.6mm minimum, indicate a pattern of edge wear rather than uniform consumption across the axle. The intervening test on 30 May 2025 passed cleanly with no defects recorded, suggesting the dangerous tyre was replaced promptly, but the recurrence of edge wear on different corners within twelve months points to an underlying geometric or suspension issue rather than simple tyre ageing. For a prospective buyer, this is a meaningful red flag that warrants further investigation rather than simply budgeting for replacement rubber. Recorded mileage of 42,007 miles over four years equates to roughly 10,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a modern EV used as daily transport. There are no significant gaps in testing history and no evidence of extended standing periods, so the high-voltage battery, drive unit, and ancillaries such as the 12V system have been kept in regular service rather than left dormant. The mileage progression appears consistent with steady commuter use, meaning the components most exposed to wear for an EV of this age, namely tyres, brake components (which can suffer corrosion from infrequent use of the friction brakes under heavy regenerative braking), and suspension linkages, are the areas most likely to show their age. Given the edge wear pattern flagged on both the front nearside and rear offside tyres, a physical inspection should focus on suspension geometry. Check for uneven tyre wear across the tread face, particularly feathering or scrubbing on the inner or outer shoulders, and inspect the condition of the front wishbones, anti-roll bar bushes, and rear trailing arm bushes for cracking or play. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking or a wandering feeling in the steering that could indicate worn drop links or compliant bushes allowing geometry to shift under load. It is also worth jacking the vehicle to check for play in the front wheel bearings and any signs of corrosion around the rear axle components. Although the ID.3 relies heavily on regenerative braking, the friction brake system should still be exercised and inspected. With the vehicle running, apply the brakes firmly from moderate speed and feel for any judder through the pedal, which could indicate warped front discs, or any pulling that suggests a binding or seized caliper, a known issue on EVs that rarely use their mechanical brakes. Inspect the brake discs for obvious lipping or surface rust around the outer edges, and check that the caliper sliders move freely. Finally, examine the underside of the vehicle for any signs of impact damage to the undertray or battery guard, as EVs carry their heavy battery low and are particularly susceptible to grounding out on kerbs or speed humps, which could compromise both structural integrity and battery protection.