2005 Vauxhall Astra 1.8L Petrol · EJ55 ANR

The vehicle is currently out of MOT coverage, with the last recorded test occurring over three years ago on 23 February 2023. The maintenance trend is worsening, as the final test at 104,115 miles flagged three tyres worn close to the legal limit and a persistent oil leak. This follows a pattern of neglecting basic consumables, as similar tyre wear advisories appeared in February 2021 and February 2020. The mileage is exceptionally low for a 21 year old vehicle, averaging under 5,000 miles per year. The record shows a significant period of stagnation between 2016 and 2019, where the odometer only moved 420 miles. This suggests the car spent several years in long term storage, which often leads to the perishing of rubber components and seals, evidenced by the cracking tyres noted in February 2020. A physical inspection must prioritise the engine for the oil leak that has been flagged consistently from 2019 through to 2023. The steering system requires scrutiny following a failure in February 2015 for excessive free play and a steering rack replacement. The suspension also shows a history of degradation, including a broken rear coil spring in February 2017 and worn lower suspension arm bushes in February 2020. Given the age and the period of inactivity, a buyer should check for structural corrosion on the sills and chassis. The repeated advisories for deteriorated registration plates and headlamp lenses suggest a lack of cosmetic upkeep. New tyres are likely required immediately, as the last three tyres were flagged as nearly worn out over three years ago.