2012 Volkswagen Caddy 1.6L Diesel · WE12 KAL

This Volkswagen Caddy’s most recent MOT, conducted just over a year ago on 29 August 2025, reveals a concerning pattern of repeated mechanical failures despite a clean pass in the preceding test. The August 2025 failure—just one mile short of the prior pass—exposed critical issues: compromised brake efficiency, excessive play in the offside front track rod end, rear brake pads worn to their indicators, and a dangerously low offside rear tyre tread. These faults suggest a vehicle that has not been maintained with the necessary rigour, particularly in suspension and braking systems. The fact that the same components failed in quick succession—after a clean 2024 test—implies either deferred repairs or a lack of proactive servicing. While the 2023 and 2022 tests were largely uneventful, the nail punctures in tyres indicate a history of neglect that could have escalated into more serious problems. The mileage progression of approximately 11,300 miles annually is typical for a vehicle of this age, but the irregularity in failures—particularly the clustering of defects in the most recent cycle—raises questions about how the vehicle was managed between tests. The gap between the 2024 pass (146,981 miles) and the 2025 failure (158,436 miles) represents just over 11,000 miles, a period in which critical components should have been inspected. The absence of any advisory notes in the 2024 test further suggests the owner may have overlooked routine checks, allowing issues to develop into failings. The 2022 seatbelt fray was addressed without recurrence, but the suspension and brake failures in 2025 indicate these systems were not properly maintained in the intervening years. A buyer should prioritise an immediate, thorough inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly the offside front track rod end, which showed excessive play—a condition that can lead to erratic handling and accelerated tyre wear. The rear brake pads worn to their indicators demand verification of the disc condition, as binding or uneven wear could indicate caliper or master cylinder issues. The offside rear tyre, which failed for tread depth, should be checked for uneven wear patterns or structural damage, as edge wear often signals alignment or suspension problems. Additionally, the service brake efficiency failure in 2025 warrants scrutiny of the hydraulic system, including brake fluid condition and master cylinder operation. Given the history of tyre punctures, a full tyre and wheel inspection—including valve stems and bead integrity—is essential to rule out further leaks or damage. Structural components such as the subframe and wheel arches should also be examined for corrosion, as this vehicle’s age increases the risk of hidden deterioration.