1993 Volkswagen Corrado: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 1993 Volkswagen Corrado?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 1993 Volkswagen Corrado than on all cars registered in 1993.

• Wheel bearings1.9× usual
  Volkswagen Corrado

  14.2% All 1993 cars

  7.6%

  Failed outright at MOT: 2.3%, against 1.3% of all 1993 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £120–£300 (one bearing) ClickMechanic

  At the viewing: Listen for a hum or growl that changes as you steer at speed.

Common 1993 Volkswagen Corrado MOT failures and advisories

The share of 1993 Volkswagen Corrado MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Brakes
  37% 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 electrics
  28% of testsRough price £10–£80

  At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.

• Suspension
  25% 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.

• Oil and fluid leaks
  17% of testsRough price £80–£600

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.

• Exhaust and emissions
  15% of testsRough price £100–£1,200

  At the viewing: Look for black soot in the tailpipe, listen for blowing from the exhaust and check for engine or DPF warning lights.

• Tyres
  10% 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.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 1993 Volkswagen Corrado

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the wheel bearings? (Flagged at MOT 1.9× as often on the 1993 Volkswagen Corrado as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?