2015 Volkswagen California: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 2015 Volkswagen Californias, from 903 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
What stands out
Parts flagged at MOT more often on 2015 Volkswagen Californias than on all cars registered in 2015.
- Anti-lock braking system8.8× usualVolkswagen California3.5% All 2015 cars0.4%
Failed outright at MOT: 3.5%, against 0.4% of all 2015 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.
Rough price £100–£350 our estimateAt the viewing: On a quiet road, brake firmly from about 30mph. The car should stop straight without pulling.
By area
The share of 2015 Volkswagen California MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres23% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Suspension20% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes17% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics14% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors7% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Steering2% of testsRough price £100–£450
At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Feel for play or knocking when turning.
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Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1,564 | Tyres 17% |
| 2021 | 897 | Tyres 17% |
| 2020 | 680 | Tyres 18% |
| 2019 | 1,297 | Tyres 22% |
| 2018 | 1,160 | Tyres 22% |
| 2017 | 1,303 | Tyres 23% |
| 2016 | 853 | Tyres 22% |
| 2014 | 745 | Suspension 23% |
| 2013 | 595 | Suspension 31% |
| 2012 | 588 | Suspension 27% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 2015 Volkswagen Californias registered in 2015. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score