2022 Volkswagen T-ROC Life TSI 1.0L Petrol · SM22 DSO

The most recent MOT on 14 May 2026 recorded a pass, but the same date also shows a failure for a major safety defect – a missing wheel bolt on the nearside front wheel fixing (regulation 5.2.1 (a) (i)). The presence of a failure alongside a pass suggests the defect was identified, rectified and re‑tested within the same session, indicating that the current owner or workshop acted promptly to remedy a serious issue. Over the two‑year MOT window the vehicle has otherwise shown no recorded defects, pointing to an overall stable maintenance pattern, provided the corrective work was carried out to specification and documented. At 42,720 mi the T‑ROC is roughly four years old, giving an average annual mileage of about 10,700 mi. This figure sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a compact SUV and does not raise concerns of accelerated wear. There are no evident gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for extended periods, which helps to keep seals, bushings and moving parts lubricated. Nonetheless, the modest mileage does not preclude age‑related degradation of components that are more calendar‑sensitive than distance‑sensitive. Given the recent wheel‑bolt defect, a prospective buyer should verify that all wheel fasteners are present, correctly torqued to the manufacturer’s specification and that the hub surface shows no signs of scoring or corrosion. During a test drive, listen for any low‑frequency thump or wobble when the vehicle is at speed, especially on uneven road surfaces, which could indicate residual hub damage or mis‑alignment. Inspect the tyre tread for uneven wear patterns that might betray a mis‑set wheel, and check the suspension’s front control‑arm bushes and ball joints for play by applying a firm push and pull at the wheel rim. Also ensure the brake discs are free of scoring and that the calipers operate without binding, as a missing bolt could have introduced vibration that stresses the braking system. Beyond the specific defect, the car’s age warrants a thorough visual and tactile inspection of time‑sensitive items. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, which can develop even on low‑mileage tyres after several years. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any corrosion on terminals, as batteries older than four years often lose capacity. Verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, and consider a fresh oil and filter change if the last recorded service is beyond the recommended interval. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for any signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and windshield‑washer fluid have been replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar schedule. These checks will help ensure that the vehicle’s mechanical condition aligns with its relatively low mileage and recent MOT outcome.