2018 Vauxhall Grandland 1.6L Diesel · WN18 DDA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 January 2026, was passed, the only recorded defect being a minor windscreen damage that does not impair the driver’s view. Over the last six years the vehicle has shown a mixed pattern: a failure in March 2023 for an excessively worn nearside front anti‑roll‑bar ball joint was followed by a series of passes, but the same joint has repeatedly returned as an advisory for slight play, and tyre‑wear advisories have persisted. While the vehicle now meets the legal standards, the recurrence of anti‑roll‑bar and tyre concerns indicates a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to prevent deterioration. At 102 602 miles the Grandland has accumulated roughly 12 800 miles per annum, well above the typical 8‑10 000 mile average for a vehicle of its class and age. This level of usage suggests accelerated wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine oil, and it also raises the likelihood of hidden fatigue in components that are not inspected at every service. The mileage history does not reveal any long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than the result of prolonged standing, which would instead manifest as corrosion or fluid degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front anti‑roll‑bar linkage on the nearside. Listen for clunking or loose sensations when applying torque through the steering wheel, especially over bumps, and feel for any play in the front end when the vehicle is lifted. A qualified mechanic should inspect the ball joint and its bushings for excessive movement, wear or corrosion, and be prepared to replace the assembly if the play exceeds the minimal allowance noted in the advisories. Tyre condition also warrants close scrutiny: the off‑side rear tyre was flagged as being close to the legal limit and showing edge wear, so verify tread depth on all four tyres, look for sidewall cracking or perishing that can arise from age as well as mileage, and ensure that the tyre pressures are correct and the wheels are free of damage. Beyond the specific advisories, a comprehensive pre‑purchase check should include a visual inspection of the windscreen for the reported damage and any subsequent cracks, a thorough examination of the rear brake discs for scoring, rust or uneven wear, and a test of the braking feel for any shudder or pull. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, the 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, and the condition of the coolant, engine oil and gearbox oil should be confirmed as per the service records, with particular attention to any signs of fluid leakage around the suspension mounts and exhaust system. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and verify that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended anti‑roll‑bar or suspension component replacements, which will give confidence that the vehicle has been maintained in line with its higher‑than‑average mileage.