2017 Vauxhall Mokka 1.4L Petrol · WS17 DPF

The most recent MOT test on 29 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after the vehicle had failed the previous day on several significant items, suggesting that the maintenance trend is one of recent deterioration rather than long-term stability. The failure included a non-functioning offside front headlamp on dipped beam, which is both a safety and a road-legal concern, alongside an offside front Macpherson strut top bush or bearing exhibiting excessive wear or free play, indicating that suspension refinement and wheel alignment geometry may already be compromised. The earlier July 2025 test also recorded a major defect for an offside front suspension arm ball joint with a compromised dust cover, demonstrating a recurring front suspension weakness on the offside that a buyer should treat as a pattern. The persistent oil leak advisory across three consecutive tests further confirms that while the seepage is currently within acceptable limits, it warrants monitoring as it may progress towards more significant gasket or seal failure. The recorded mileage of 85,666 miles over approximately nine years equates to an annual usage of around 9,500 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. This level of use suggests consistent rather than occasional driving, meaning that mechanical components such as the clutch, brakes, drivetrain, and suspension have experienced normal wear progression rather than the specific risks associated with low-mileage or long-standing vehicles. There are no significant gaps or unusually rapid accumulation evident in the mileage history, so there is no particular concern regarding prolonged standing periods or excessive high-mileage wear patterns, though the consistent annual usage does mean that consumable replacement intervals should align closely with the calendar rather than being deferred on the basis of low miles. Given the recurring offside front suspension issues, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful test drive paying close attention to any clonking, knocking, or knocking through the steering when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, as well as any vagueness or wandering from the front end which would indicate worn top mount bearings or deteriorating bushes. The suspension arm ball joint dust cover failure should prompt an inspection for perished or split CV gaiters and any play when the wheel is rocked by hand, while also checking the condition of the offside front tyre for uneven inner or outer wear, which is symptomatic of compromised suspension geometry. The offside front Macpherson strut top mount wear is particularly important to verify, as continued use with excessive free play can accelerate tyre wear, impair handling, and lead to a failed MOT at the next annual test if not rectified. Additionally, the nearside rear brake binding advisory from 2025 suggests that the caliper slide pins or piston may be sticking, and during the test drive the buyer should listen for any rear brake drag or feel for uneven retardation, particularly after the vehicle has been in use for some time. The persistent oil leak advisory, while currently classified as not excessive, should be physically inspected by checking the underside of the engine and surrounding components for fresh oil residue, with particular attention to the valve cover gasket, sump, and any turbo or camshaft seals depending on the engine variant fitted. The 2024 advisories relating to tyre cracking, perishing, and edge wear on both axles indicate that the vehicle may be sensitive to ageing rubber, and the buyer should examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and manufacturing date codes, replacing any tyres over six years old regardless of remaining tread. Given the calendar age of nine years, the brake fluid should be considered due for renewal irrespective of the MOT record, and the 12V battery health should be tested as heat exposure and age typically compromise its capacity well before failure. Finally, a comprehensive inspection of the coolant system is warranted in light of the low coolant advisory, with checks for leaks at the radiator, hoses, water pump, and any signs of corrosion in the expansion tank, alongside verification of the full service history to confirm timely replacement of the timing chain or belt, spark plugs, and transmission fluid where applicable.