2018 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0L Diesel · YY18 MDF

The most recent DVSA examination on 7 May 2026 recorded a PASS, but the immediately preceding test on 6 May 2026 resulted in a FAIL with three major defects and advisories concerning the offside rear inner tyre and an offside front service brake binding issue. Notably, the advisories raised on the failed test were carried directly forward to the pass notice the following day, suggesting that the tyre was either replaced or rectified to achieve the pass, while the front brake disc wear and fractured coil spring majors were likely addressed in the short interval between tests. Looking at the broader pattern, the maintenance trend is clearly worsening rather than stable. Across the 2024, 2025 and 2026 tests, brake-related advisories and majors have escalated from pitted rear discs in 2024, to a significantly worn rear brake disc in 2025, and then to significantly worn front brake discs together with fractured front coil springs in 2026. Tyre condition has also been a consistent theme, ranging from perishing on both rear tyres in 2024 to an offside rear inner tyre worn down to the legal limit on the inner edge by 2026. With a recorded mileage of 60,862 miles over approximately eight years, this Volkswagen Caddy has covered an average of around 7,600 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class. This level of annual usage is consistent with light commercial or family fleet operation rather than high-mileage motorway driving, meaning wear should be relatively moderate across major mechanical components. However, the MOT history only shows three consecutive annual test entries without any intermediate recorded mileages, so there is no granular visibility of how mileage has accumulated between tests. Any evidence of inconsistent service book stamping, missing intervals, or large unaccounted-for mileage gaps on the odometer should be carefully verified, as a vehicle of this age with relatively modest annual mileage benefits considerably from regular oil and filter changes, brake fluid renewal, and coolant servicing to prevent calendar-based degradation of internal components. The repeated brake disc advisories culminating in front discs being recorded as significantly and obviously worn indicates that the braking system has likely been on a downward trajectory for some time. A prospective buyer should carry out a thorough road test, paying particular attention to any brake shudder or pulsation through the steering wheel under firm pedal application, which would suggest the front discs are warped or have uneven wear. The offside front brake was also flagged as binding but not excessively at the last test, so it is worth listening for any dragging or rubbing noises from that wheel when first pulling away from cold, and checking for a hot wheel hub or uneven brake dust accumulation on the inner rim after driving. The fracture of both front coil springs is a notable structural concern; coil springs typically fail due to fatigue, and a buyer should listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front suspension over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, as well as inspecting for any loss of front ride height or uneven stance. It should be established whether the springs were replaced with OEM-quality components, as inferior pattern parts on a commercial vehicle of this weight are prone to premature failure. Beyond the recorded defects, a buyer of an eight-year-old Caddy with moderate mileage should pay close attention to age-related deterioration that does not always show on an MOT. Inspect all tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and check the spare wheel or inflation kit for similar deterioration. Examine the exhaust system, particularly the flexi section and mounting rubbers, for corrosion at the joints, and verify the most recent timing belt or cam belt replacement interval if applicable to the engine variant, as this is a critical maintenance item on commercial Volkswagens. The 12V battery should be load tested, as batteries typically have a service life of five to six years, meaning the original unit may be approaching the end of its functional life. Finally, inspect the underbody and suspension arms, bushes, and anti-roll bar links for corrosion and perishing, and confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil have been changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals, since low annual mileage does not prevent time-based fluid degradation.