2014 Volkswagen UP 1.0L Petrol · VE63 ETO

A recurring theme across the MOT record is progressive tyre wear on the near‑side front wheel, repeatedly flagged as being close to the legal limit, together with intermittent lighting faults and a single major failure of the windscreen wiper in 2025. The most recent test in June 2026 was passed, but the near‑side front tyre was again noted at 2.3 mm tread depth, confirming that tyre wear remains the principal mechanical concern despite the vehicle clearing each inspection after remedial work. With 66,247 mi recorded over twelve years the average annual accumulation is roughly 5,500 mi, well below the typical usage for a small city car of this age. The MOT history shows no gaps in annual testing, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road rather than stored for extended periods. Low mileage generally reduces overall component fatigue, yet the persistent front‑tyre wear suggests either an alignment issue or uneven loading that has not been fully resolved, and it may accelerate wear on related suspension elements such as the front lower arms and tyre‑side bushes. Prospective buyers should inspect the tyre set comprehensively. The near‑side front tyre is within a few millimetres of the minimum legal tread and should be replaced promptly; examine the tread pattern for cupping or feathering that would point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. Verify the condition of the off‑side rear tyre that was described as slightly damaged or cracking in 2021 and 2022, and confirm that the off‑side front tyre, which was flagged in 2024, still retains adequate tread. During a test drive, listen for any knocking over bumps, feel for steering pull, and check that the vehicle tracks straight when the steering wheel is released. The lighting and wiper system also warrants attention. The registration‑plate lamp was recorded as inoperative in 2026, and daytime‑running lamps have been intermittently out of service in 2024 and 2025; ensure all exterior lamps illuminate correctly and that the wiring harnesses are intact. The windscreen wiper failed to clear the screen effectively in the 2025 test, a major defect that should be verified by operating the wipers at various speeds and inspecting the motor, linkage and blade condition for wear or hydraulic leakage. Replacing any faulty bulbs, checking the wiper motor operation and confirming a clear, streak‑free wipe will help avoid a repeat failure at the next MOT.