2016 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0L Diesel · SD16 MZP

The most recent MOT test results, conducted on 2025-11-03, show the vehicle passed with a single minor defect related to the windscreen’s impact on driver visibility, alongside three advisories—two concerning front suspension arm pin or bush wear on both sides, and an oil leak that was not deemed excessive. While the 2025 test was passed, the vehicle failed the same day with critical defects, including a missing offside rear road wheel fixing and a non-functional near-side headlamp, indicating a pattern of recurring issues that may not have been fully addressed between tests. Prior to this, the MOT history reveals a mixed but generally stable trend, with only a few minor failures and advisories over the past four years, though the presence of repeated suspension and braking advisories suggests ongoing wear that warrants closer attention. The vehicle’s MOT performance does not yet reflect a clear deterioration, but the need for immediate attention to the wheel fixing and headlamp failure underscores the importance of addressing these critical issues promptly to maintain roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 209,175 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a high annual usage rate of around 20,918 miles per year, which is significantly above the average for its class. Such mileage accumulation is typical of vehicles used in commercial or high-demand applications, leading to accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems. The absence of substantial mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests consistent usage, which may have contributed to the observed wear on suspension bushes and brake pads, as well as the oil leak observed in previous tests. Buyers should be aware that this level of usage will likely accelerate the degradation of internal components, particularly in the drivetrain, exhaust system, and electrical systems, requiring proactive maintenance to prevent costly repairs. Given the recurring advisories on front suspension arm pin or bush wear and the critical failures related to the rear wheel fixing and headlamp functionality, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system during a test drive. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises, particularly when negotiating bumps or corners, which may indicate further wear or detachment of suspension components. Inspect the front suspension arms for excessive play or binding, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues. The missing rear road wheel fixing is a serious concern and should be repaired immediately to prevent the wheel from becoming loose, which could lead to a dangerous situation. Additionally, the non-functional headlamp and misaligned washer jets from past MOTs must be rectified to ensure compliance with lighting regulations and visibility during operation. For the buyer, the vehicle’s age and high mileage necessitate a comprehensive physical inspection beyond the MOT checks. Verify the condition of the tyres, paying particular attention to sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure and lead to blowouts. Check for standing corrosion on the chassis, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression. Inspect the 12V battery and associated electrical connections for signs of corrosion or poor contact, as the vehicle’s electrical system may have been subjected to increased demand from high mileage. Given the advisories on brake pad wear, examine the brake discs for corrosion, binding calipers, or uneven wear, and test the braking performance for any signs of sponginess or excessive pedal travel. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—and ensuring they are within manufacturer specifications, as fluid degradation can occur over time even without significant mileage.