2021 Volkswagen ID4 1ST Edition Electric · TV21 XLS

The most recent MOT test for this 2021 Volkswagen ID4 reflects a concerning pattern of tyre-related failures, indicating either aggressive or improper driving practices that have led to premature wear. The vehicle passed its September 2025 MOT with no recorded defects, but the preceding test in September 2024 revealed front tyres worn close to the legal limit on the inner edge, while the September 2025 test documented dangerous failures on both rear tyres—nearside and offside—with tread depths below the minimum 1.6mm requirement. This inconsistency suggests either inconsistent tyre rotation, uneven loading, or excessive cornering forces that have accelerated wear beyond what would be expected from its age alone. The presence of advisories about near-side front tyre wear on edge further implies that the vehicle has been subjected to lateral stresses, potentially from hard braking, sharp turns, or misaligned suspension. Without additional context on service history or tyre rotation intervals, this trend warrants immediate attention, as it could indicate underlying issues such as misaligned wheels, worn suspension components, or improper tyre fitment. The recorded mileage of 69,050 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a relatively high annual usage rate of approximately 13,810 miles per year, which is notably above the average for its class. While some owners may achieve lower mileage through lighter use or extended periods of inactivity, this accumulation suggests sustained driving demands that have likely accelerated wear on consumables, suspension elements, and braking systems. High-mileage vehicles of this age are particularly susceptible to issues such as reduced tyre tread life, potential suspension bush degradation, and early signs of brake pad or rotor wear due to increased thermal and mechanical stress. Additionally, the absence of significant mileage gaps could imply that the vehicle has been in regular use, potentially contributing to more frequent exposure to environmental factors like road debris, which may have accelerated corrosion or internal component fatigue over time. Given the recurring tyre-related advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the following areas: verify the tread depth across all four tyres using a tread depth gauge, check for signs of uneven wear patterns that could indicate wheel alignment issues or suspension problems, and inspect for visible signs of damage such as cuts, bulges, or sidewall cracking. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the tyres, particularly during cornering or braking, as these may signal lateral or thermal distress. The front tyres, in particular, should be examined for wear on the inner edges, which could correlate with misaligned wheels or suspension binding. Immediate replacement of the rear tyres, which are already below the legal minimum tread depth, is essential to ensure road safety, and the front tyres should be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration. Additionally, consider having the wheels aligned and the suspension components inspected, as these may be contributing to the uneven wear observed. Beyond the tyre issues, the buyer should also prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the braking system, given the potential for binding calipers or corroded brake discs from prolonged standing or high-mileage usage. Check for signs of brake fluid leaks under the vehicle, listen for squeaking or grinding noises during braking, and inspect the brake discs and pads for uneven wear, corrosion, or binding. The suspension should be examined for signs of worn bushes, broken coil springs, or excessive play in the steering or suspension linkages, as these could exacerbate tyre wear and contribute to handling instability. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is prudent to verify that all fluids—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—are at the correct levels and show no signs of degradation or contamination. Lastly, a check of the 12V battery health and the alternator output is recommended, as high-mileage vehicles are more prone to electrical system failures, which could affect the overall reliability and performance of the vehicle. If the tyre issues are resolved and the above checks confirm no critical failures, the ID4 may still offer a safe and functional platform, but its maintenance schedule should be adjusted to account for the accelerated wear patterns observed.