2020 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · WM69 TYZ

The most recent MOT test on the 2020 Volkswagen Caddy took place on 2026-05-22 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no roadworthiness defects at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly around brake system integrity and tyre wear, which have led to two previous failures—once in 2025 and again in 2025 with dangerous failures for both front and rear brake pads being below the legal minimum thickness. The 2025 advisory regarding offside front inner tyre wear close to the legal limit further suggests a history of uneven or excessive tyre degradation, which could be linked to improper alignment, suspension wear, or driving habits. While the intervening MOTs in 2024 and 2023 were clean, the absence of maintenance records between these tests and the high annual mileage of approximately 12,667 miles raise questions about whether the vehicle has been adequately serviced to mitigate wear and tear. The recorded mileage of 76,003 miles for a 2020 Caddy is notably high for its age, reflecting an annual usage rate of around 12,667 miles, which is above the average for vehicles of this generation. Such high mileage, particularly without evident long periods of inactivity, typically accelerates wear on critical components such as brake pads, tyres, suspension bushes, and drivetrain elements. The front brake pads failing at both MOTs below the 1.5 mm legal threshold is particularly alarming, as this indicates severe friction material consumption, likely due to prolonged or aggressive braking, which can also contribute to overheating and warping of brake discs. The offside front inner tyre wear advisory suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to lateral forces or misalignment, leading to uneven tread degradation, which could further compromise handling and fuel efficiency over time. Given the vehicle’s history of brake-related failures and tyre wear issues, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system during the test drive. Listen for unusual noises such as grinding, squeaking, or scraping from the front and rear brakes, which could indicate worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Visually inspect the brake discs for signs of uneven wear, scoring, or glazing, and check for any fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder, calipers, or brake lines. The tyres should be examined for lateral wear patterns, cracks in the sidewall, or signs of excessive cupping, which could signal suspension or alignment problems. Additionally, verify that the brake pedal does not feel spongy or travel excessively when pressed, as this may indicate air in the hydraulic system or a failing master cylinder. Immediate attention to brake pad replacement and potential suspension or alignment adjustments would be prudent, as the current condition suggests the system is nearing critical limits. For the Caddy’s age and mileage, the buyer should also prioritise a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid-based components. Given the high annual mileage, check for signs of suspension wear, such as excessive play in the control arms, bushings, or coil springs, which could manifest as clunking noises over bumps or uneven ride height. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, or structural damage, as emissions-related advisories or failures could become more prevalent with age. The vehicle’s tyres, despite the recent advisory, should be examined for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre’s structural integrity over time, even if tread depth remains legal. Pay particular attention to the battery, as prolonged high-mileage usage without regular charging can lead to reduced capacity or failure, particularly if the vehicle has been left in a stationary state for extended periods. Finally, the buyer should verify that the service history includes scheduled fluid top-ups, particularly brake fluid, which can degrade over time and compromise braking performance. If the vehicle has been driven at a moderate pace with fewer than 12,000 miles annually, the wear rate may be lower, but the buyer should still address the brake system deficiencies promptly to avoid further deterioration.