2011 Volkswagen Caddy 1.6L Diesel · PF11 MDO

A serious MOT failure in 2019 exposed a near‑side rear service brake that was excessively binding, a parking brake that fell below efficiency requirements and an inoperative registration‑plate lamp – all recorded as major defects. Since that remedial episode the car has recorded seven consecutive passes, with the most recent test in November 2025 confirming roadworthiness but flagging front‑disc wear and thin rear pads as advisories rather than failures, indicating that the earlier brake issues have been addressed but that wear is now progressing. At 84,557 mi on a 2011 model the average annual accumulation is roughly 5,600 mi, well below the typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The low mileage suggests the car has spent considerable time off the road or has been driven lightly, which can reduce overall component fatigue but may also mean periods of inactivity that can affect seals and rubber parts. The MOT record shows no large gaps in testing, with annual examinations apart from the back‑to‑back May 2019 tests that reflect the rapid correction of the failure. Prospective buyers should give the braking system close attention. The front disc is described as worn, pitted or scored, and the rear pads are approaching the minimum thickness; combined with the historic binding issue, a thorough inspection for pedal travel, any pulsation or squeal under braking, and free movement of the rear calipers is essential. Verify that the parking brake now holds firmly and that the hand‑brake lever offers a solid, consistent feel. Any signs of uneven pedal resistance, grinding noises or a soft parking brake may indicate that the discs, pads or the rear brake pipe require replacement or adjustment. Tyre condition also warrants scrutiny. Advisories in 2021 and 2023 highlighted edge wear on the front tyres and, by 2023, all four tyres were close to the legal limit, suggesting a pattern of uneven wear that could stem from alignment or suspension issues. Examine tread depth across the tyre width, look for cupping or feathering, and assess whether the tyres are still within the minimum legal depth. A test‑drive should reveal any steering pull, vibration, or shudder that could point to misalignment or worn suspension bushes, which would need correction before the next MOT. Finally, confirm that the registration‑plate lamp now operates correctly, as it was a major failure in 2019.