2005 Vauxhall Meriva 1.6L Petrol · DE05 AAZ

The most recent MOT on 2023-07-07 recorded two failures: both rear tyres showed slight damage/cracking or perishing, and the nearside stop lamp was not working. A separate MOT on the same date also passed, but the failures highlight ongoing issues with tyre condition and electrical components. The 2022 MOT revealed significant suspension and steering defects, including excessive wear in both front suspension arm ball joints, excessive play in the nearside track rod end, and worn brake discs. These issues suggest a pattern of mechanical degradation, particularly in critical safety systems. Recurring problems include tyre perishing, which appeared in 2021, 2022, and 2023, indicating potential age-related deterioration or insufficient maintenance. Suspension and steering components, such as ball joints and track rod ends, showed worsening defects over time, with excessive play and wear documented in 2022. Brake system issues, including corroded pipes and worn discs, also persisted, raising concerns about long-term reliability. The 2021 MOT noted minor exhaust leaks and corroded brake pipes, while the 2023 failure included a non-functional stop lamp, pointing to intermittent electrical or wiring faults. The vehicle’s mileage of 120,952 miles over 21 years equates to roughly 5,760 miles per year, which is low for its age. This could imply infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity, both of which may accelerate tyre degradation and component corrosion.