2014 Vauxhall Mokka 1.6L Petrol · MM14 DHO

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though the same date also shows a failure entry which suggests a retest was successfully carried out on the same day. The failure cited a nearside track rod end ball joint with excessive play, classified as a Major defect, while the advisories recorded an oil leak not considered excessive and a coolant leak. Looking at the broader history, there is a clear worsening trend rather than a stable one. The 2023 test noted slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint, and by 2024 there was a dangerous tyre tread depth issue alongside an edge-wear advisory on both rear tyres, suggesting suspension geometry may already be compromised. The 2025 test escalates this with the track rod end failure, pointing to progressive wear in the front steering and suspension components that warrants close mechanical attention before purchase. Recorded mileage stands at 90,873 miles over approximately twelve years, equating to around 7,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT record to suggest long periods of standing, although the relatively modest annual figure means the car has seen regular but not heavy use. This pattern generally supports reasonable mechanical condition, but components subjected to age-related degradation such as rubber seals, cooling system hoses, and brake hydraulic parts will still have endured over a decade of calendar wear regardless of distance covered. A service history book and verifiable maintenance stamps would be essential to confirm that time-based items such as coolant, brake fluid, and timing components have been renewed at appropriate intervals. Given the recurring advisories and the track rod end failure, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering geometry. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and pay attention to vague or wandering steering, uneven tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges, or a sensation of the vehicle pulling to one side under braking. The nearside track rod end will likely have been replaced to achieve the pass, but the adjoining components including the offside track rod end, inner tie rods, droplinks, and suspension arms should be checked for similar play, as these parts often wear in tandem. The 2023 advisory on the offside front suspension arm ball joint is particularly relevant, as unresolved play in that area can accelerate tyre wear and compromise handling. A four-wheel alignment and a full underbody inspection by a technician would be prudent to confirm the steering and suspension are within tolerance and free from excess movement. Beyond the documented defects, the oil and coolant leaks recorded in 2025 merit direct investigation. On inspection, look for fresh oil residue around the engine block, sump, and valve cover gasket, and check the coolant expansion tank, radiator, and associated hoses for staining, crusting, or active weeping. Left unaddressed, an oil leak can lead to low lubrication and accelerated engine wear, while a coolant leak risks overheating and potential cylinder head damage. Given the vehicle's age, also examine the timing chain or belt service interval according to manufacturer schedule, verify the condition of the 12V battery as a twelve-year-old unit is well beyond typical service life, and inspect the tyres not just for tread depth but for sidewall cracking or perishing from age. Finally, check for corrosion on the brake discs, which often surface on vehicles that have seen light or irregular use, and confirm the handbrake and calipers are not binding after periods of standing.