2014 Vauxhall Mokka 1.7L Diesel · MD14 WOX

The most recent MOT on 24 March 2026 was passed, with advisories only for the off‑side and near‑side front tyres being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear. This follows a pattern of improvement: a dangerous failure in August 2022 centred on multiple tyres with exposed ply, then clean passes in 2022‑08, 2023‑09 and 2024‑11, the latter noting only thin front brake pads. The trend therefore moves from a serious tyre safety issue to a stable, albeit tyre‑wear‑approaching‑limit, condition. At 44,979 miles recorded for a 2014 model, the vehicle averages roughly 3,750 miles per year, well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 k mi per annum. Such low annual mileage suggests the car has spent considerable periods idle, which can be as consequential as high mileage for ageing components. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber hardening, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension joints, even though the cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain parts is likely modest. Prospective buyers should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Verify that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm on all four wheels, check for sidewall cracking, dry rot, or any bulges that may indicate internal ply damage, and note the DOT code to confirm the tyres are not beyond six years old. During a test drive, listen for any thumping or vibration that could signal uneven wear or a developing separation, and feel for a pull to one side that might reveal mis‑alignment or worn steering bushes. The front brake pads, flagged as thin in the 2024 advisory, should be measured; if the remaining thickness is under 3 mm the pads will need replacement soon, and the discs should be examined for scoring or rust that could cause shudder under braking. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also inspect for signs of age‑related deterioration. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and consider a load test, as a battery left unused for long stretches can lose capacity. Check the condition of the suspension bushings, ball joints and anti‑roll bar mounts for any cracking or excessive play, especially after the car has been stationary for years. Inspect the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids for colour change or particulate contamination, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any time‑based services such as timing‑belt replacement (if applicable) have been performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule.