2002 Volkswagen Caravelle 2.5L Diesel · SK52 OGS

The Volkswagen Caravelle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-05-28 confirms it remains roadworthy, yet the immediate preceding record reveals a concerning pattern. The vehicle failed twice in quick succession in May 2024—first on the 10th at 97,603 miles, then passing on the 17th at 97,608 miles—before passing again in June 2023 without issue. This suggests either a narrowly avoided failure in 2024 or a rushed repair between tests. The lack of recorded defects in the last two passes indicates no overt structural or safety-critical issues were detected, but the repeated near-miss in 2024 warrants scrutiny of components prone to gradual degradation, such as suspension bushes or brake calipers, which might have been overlooked or inadequately addressed. The recorded mileage of 99,009 miles over 24 years equates to approximately 4,125 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the average for a vehicle of this age. This suggests the Caravelle has spent extended periods either in storage or under light use, which could mitigate some wear but also introduces risks of neglected maintenance. Notably, the gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests—just 11 months—followed by the rapid retest in May 2024, implies either a proactive owner or a response to an impending failure. The consistency in mileage between tests (around 1,400 miles in a year) suggests no sudden spikes in usage, which might have accelerated wear on high-stress parts. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in older Volkswagen models. The repeated near-failures in 2024 could indicate binding calipers or uneven brake pad wear, so the condition of the brake discs, rotors, and hydraulic system should be thoroughly checked. Additionally, the vehicle’s underbody and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, as prolonged periods of low mileage can exacerbate rust if the Caravelle was exposed to moisture or poor storage conditions. The absence of defects in recent passes does not preclude latent issues, so attention to these areas will provide clarity on the vehicle’s true condition.