2007 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · SM57 POV

A recurring theme of structural and suspension deterioration, highlighted by a dangerous fuel‑tank strap failure in September 2025, dominates this Caddy’s MOT record; the same test also noted an under‑sealed under‑body, while earlier major failures in June 2023 on both rear shock absorbers and the off‑side front wheel bearing show a pattern of components losing effectiveness over time. The most recent pass in September 2025 confirms the vehicle is currently road‑worthy, but the history of serious defects interspersed with numerous advisories indicates a gradual decline rather than a consistently clean trend. At 115,319 mi spread over 19 years the average annual accumulation sits around 6 000 mi, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests no periods of extreme use or prolonged storage. MOT entries are present for every year from 2020 onward, with no significant gaps, so the mileage figure is likely reliable and the wear on consumables should correspond to normal ageing rather than abrupt mileage spikes. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the fuel‑tank mounting; any rattling, looseness, or signs of fuel seepage around the strap area would confirm the earlier dangerous defect has not been remedied. The under‑body corrosion noted in 2024 and the under‑sealed condition from 2025 warrant a visual inspection for rust on the chassis rails, sills and floorpan, especially around mounting points for the suspension and exhaust. The front suspension arm pins and bushes flagged in 2024 should be checked for excessive play or knocking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed, and the rear shock absorbers, which were recorded as having negligible damping in 2023, should be evaluated for fluid leakage, loss of rebound resistance and any audible thumps over bumps. Brake system components also require scrutiny: both front and rear discs were repeatedly described as worn, pitted or scored, so measuring disc thickness and listening for squeal or pulsation under hard braking is essential. The rear brake pipe corrosion noted in 2024 may manifest as external rust or wet spots; any brake fluid loss or spongy pedal feel should be investigated. Wheel bearing condition, especially the off‑side front bearing that previously showed excessive play, should be assessed for grinding or growling during cornering. Finally, tyre sidewalls that were flagged as slightly damaged or close to the legal limit in earlier tests must be examined for cracking, bulges or uneven wear, and the child‑seat mounting area should be cleared to allow a full inspection of the adult seatbelt system.