2018 Vauxhall Mokka 1.4L Petrol · OY18 DFP

The most recent MOT, dated 13 April 2026, resulted in a failure due to a major defect on the off‑side front suspension arm – the ball‑joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt – and an advisory concerning slight damage and cracking of the near‑side rear tyre. The preceding five years of MOTs were all passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle had enjoyed a stable maintenance record until the latest inspection, at which point a significant suspension issue has emerged. With a recorded 37,464 miles on the odometer and an eight‑year age, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,700 miles per year, well below the UK average for a comparable model. Such low utilisation often points to periods of extended storage rather than heavy use, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in terms of corrosion, battery ageing and the degradation of fluids that are not regularly refreshed. The modest mileage does, however, suggest that wear items such as the clutch, gearbox and engine internals are likely to be in relatively good condition, provided the car has been kept in a dry, sheltered environment. Prospective buyers should give the off‑side front ball joint immediate attention. Inspect the dust cover for cracks or missing pieces and check the ball joint for excessive play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; any clunk, looseness or uneven steering feel could indicate accelerated wear now that contaminants can reach the joint. On a test drive, listen for a distinct knock or thud when negotiating bumps, and feel for any wandering of the steering wheel. The near‑side rear tyre should be examined for sidewall cracking, tread loss and any signs of dry rot; a tyre that is more than six years old should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth, as per tyre‑perishing guidelines. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑mileage profile, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑related items is advisable. Verify the condition of all suspension bushes and coil springs for corrosion or cracking, especially where the car may have sat for long periods. Check the 12‑volt battery voltage and conduct a load test, as batteries left idle for years often lose capacity. Examine the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear that can develop when a car is seldom driven, and confirm that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years to avoid moisture absorption. Finally, ensure the service book shows regular oil changes and that the coolant, power‑steering and transmission fluids have been topped up or replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar schedule.