2016 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0L Diesel · SH66 LLJ

The most recent MOT test conducted in February 2024 resulted in a pass, but the advisory list indicates a concerning trend of deteriorating mechanical condition and neglected consumables. While the vehicle has avoided outright failures in the last two years, the frequency and nature of the advisories suggest that maintenance is being reactive rather than proactive. The transition from a dangerous failure in 2020 to a series of mounting advisories regarding steering, suspension, and tyres indicates that components are being allowed to wear significantly beyond their optimal service life before attention is given. This pattern suggests a potential lack of preventative maintenance which could lead to more expensive component failures in the near future. With 130,183 miles recorded over approximately ten years, this Volkswagen Sharan has averaged roughly 13,000 miles per year. This represents relatively high usage for a family MPV of this age, placing consistent mechanical stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. High mileage combined with this specific maintenance history means that wear-and-tear components are likely nearing the end of their functional life. You should expect that major service items, such as the timing belt and water pump, along with heavy-duty suspension components like coil springs and shock absorbers, may require imminent replacement if they have not been addressed recently. The recurring advisories regarding the steering rack inner joints and the nearside front lower suspension arm bush are significant mechanical red flags. During your test drive, listen closely for any knocking, clunking, or dull thudding sounds when driving over uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Play in the steering rack can manifest as a vague or disconnected feeling through the steering wheel, while worn suspension bushes often cause uneven tyre wear and can lead to instability during cornering. Furthermore, the persistent history of tyres being worn close to the legal limit or wearing unevenly on the inner edges suggests a possible issue with wheel alignment or camber settings. You must inspect the current tyres for irregular wear patterns and ensure the steering geometry has been corrected, otherwise, you will face frequent and costly tyre replacements. Brake health also warrants close scrutiny given the 2023 advisory regarding thin front brake pads. Check the brake discs for excessive scoring, lip formation, or heavy corrosion, and during the test drive, feel for any pedal pulsation or shuddering which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Given the high mileage and the age of the vehicle, also verify the service history for evidence of regular fluid changes, specifically brake fluid and engine oil. Because this vehicle has been used heavily, ensure there are no visible signs of fluid leaks from the engine bay or the underside of the chassis, particularly around the gearbox and suspension mounting points, as these could indicate seals or gaskets that have perished due to high mileage and thermal cycling.