2016 Volkswagen California 2.0L Diesel · N3 LUV

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 61,126 miles was a pass, it highlighted persistent issues with front lower suspension bushes and worn tyres. The record shows a pattern of deferred mechanical repairs, particularly following the 2024 failure involving exhaust leaks and emission defects, which suggests the owner only addresses faults after an MOT failure rather than during routine service intervals. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use camper vehicle, averaging approximately 6,100 miles per year. Between October 2023 at 41,909 miles and October 2024 at 51,194 miles, the vehicle covered nearly 10,000 miles in a single year. This sudden increase in usage explains the rapid wear observed on the tyres and brake pads. The overall mileage remains low for a ten-year-old Volkswagen, but the components indicate significant component wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front end, as the suspension arm pins and bushes were flagged as worn across both the 2024 and 2025 tests. The recurring nature of these advisories suggests the bushes are reaching the end of their functional life and require replacement. The buyer should also verify the brake system state, as pads were noted as thin in 2024, and check that the EGR pipe and exhaust system have been properly rectified following the major failure in October 2024. The windscreen has remained a noted defect for over three years, indicating a long-term stone chip or crack that has not been addressed. Given the rear tyres were found nearing the legal limit in the most recent test, a full tread depth check across all axles is necessary to ensure immediate safety. The vehicle's history indicates that maintenance is performed only when necessary, making a professional inspection essential before taking ownership.