2018 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · TW16 CAB

The Volkswagen Caddy passed its most recent MOT test on 20 August 2026, although two advisories were issued for the offside and nearside rear tyres being worn close to the legal limit and showing edge wear. Looking at the broader pattern of MOT results over the past twenty months, the vehicle has demonstrated a largely stable maintenance profile, with passes recorded in January 2025 and August 2025. A failure occurred on 1 August 2025 due to a non-functioning nearside front position lamp, a minor electrical issue that was rectified for the subsequent pass later that month. The recurring nature of the rear tyre wear advisories and the brake disc pitting observations across multiple tests suggests that consumable wear items are being monitored but not yet replaced, indicating that proactive maintenance should be planned by any prospective buyer. With 41,456 miles recorded on an eight-year-old vehicle, the Caddy has averaged approximately 5,182 miles annually, which is notably low for a commercial-orientated van of this type. This low annual mileage suggests either light-duty use, predominantly urban or short-journey operation, or potentially extended periods of standing between uses. Such a usage pattern carries specific mechanical implications, as low-mileage vehicles are often more susceptible to time-related degradation rather than distance-based wear. Particular attention should be paid to brake calipers that may bind or seize due to infrequent use, brake disc surface corrosion from standing in damp conditions, and the general perishing of rubber components and fluids that degrade with calendar age regardless of mileage covered. Given the recurring advisories for pitted brake discs at both front and rear axles, a prospective buyer should inspect the braking system thoroughly before purchase. Brake disc pitting occurs when the surface corrosion that forms naturally on cast iron becomes uneven due to infrequent or light braking, leading to a roughened surface texture that can reduce braking efficiency and cause shudder or vibration under heavy pedal application. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing noises when braking, feel for pulsation through the brake pedal, and check whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which could indicate a binding caliper. The rear tyre edge wear advisories are also significant, as edge wear typically points to incorrect wheel alignment, under-inflation, or worn suspension components; combined with the advisory recorded in January 2025 regarding a worn offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush, the front suspension geometry should be carefully inspected for any clonking noises over speed bumps, uneven tyre wear patterns, or excessive play when the wheels are rocked by hand. Beyond the recorded defects, the low-mileage profile of this Caddy warrants additional age-appropriate inspection points that may not be captured during standard MOT testing. The tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by UV exposure and age, even if the tread depth appears adequate, as rubber compounds harden and weaken over time. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries that have sat partially discharged during periods of standing will have significantly reduced capacity and may fail without warning. All fluid services should be verified against time rather than mileage, including engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid replacement which is recommended every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, coolant renewal, and manual transmission or clutch hydraulic fluid where applicable. A comprehensive service history should be requested to confirm these time-based items have been attended to, as a low-mileage van that has been neglected on calendar-based servicing can present greater mechanical risk than a higher-mileage example that has received regular annual attention.