2018 Volkswagen T-ROC 1.6L Diesel · ML68 VMP

The most recent MOT on 14 November 2025 was passed with no recorded defects, but the advisory notes from the previous two years show a clear pattern of wear on the braking system and tyres. In 2024 the examiner flagged front and rear brake discs as pitted and scored and highlighted thin brake pads, while tyre edges were reported as close to the legal limit. The 2023 advisory added rear brake lining wear, and in 2022 the front tyres were again noted as near‑limit. This progression suggests that the vehicle’s consumables are reaching the end of their service life and that the maintenance trend is worsening rather than stabilising. At 46,986 miles the T‑Roc has covered roughly 5,900 miles per year over its eight‑year life, a mileage figure that is low for a vehicle of this age. Such modest annual usage often points to periods of infrequent driving or extended storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because components age calendar‑wise. Rubber compounds in tyres and seals can harden, battery plates can sulphate, and fluids can degrade even when the car is not being driven hard. Conversely, the low mileage means that major wear items such as the engine, transmission and suspension bushes may have experienced less mechanical stress than a higher‑mileage counterpart. A prospective buyer should give the brakes a thorough examination. Visually inspect the front and rear discs for deep scoring, rust patches or glazing, and measure pad thickness – anything under 3 mm is approaching the replacement point. On a test drive feel for any pulsation through the pedal, a spongy or soft response, or squealing noises that indicate pad wear or glazed surfaces. The tyres demand close scrutiny: check tread depth with a gauge (the legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but for a vehicle of this age 3 mm is a safer target), look for sidewall cracking, bulges or uneven wear that could signal mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Also examine the wheel bearings for play and listen for humming or grinding noises while the car is coasting. Because the car has been idle for stretches of time, time‑based items should be addressed regardless of mileage. Test the 12 V battery’s cranking voltage and consider a load test; a battery older than four years often needs replacement. Inspect the condition of coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – all should be clear, at the correct level and free of contamination, and should be flushed if they have not been serviced in the past 24 months. Verify that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and that any recall work has been completed. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, focusing on the brakes, tyres, suspension bushings, corrosion on chassis members and the health of all fluids, will give the buyer confidence in the vehicle’s roadworthiness and highlight any imminent maintenance that may be required.