2020 Vauxhall Astra 1.2L Petrol · ET70 BDE

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 2020 Vauxhall Astra was conducted on 19 August 2026 and resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the most desirable outcome for any prospective buyer. Looking at the broader test history, the vehicle demonstrates an essentially stable maintenance profile, although there is one notable pattern worth highlighting. On 4 August 2026 the car failed on a major defect concerning the nearside front seat belt not functioning as intended, and just five days later it passed with no recorded advisories, suggesting that the seat belt issue was rectified promptly and effectively. A separate failure occurred on 18 September 2025 for an illuminated engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), which on a Vauxhall Astra can relate to a range of emissions, sensor, or ignition system faults. It is worth verifying with the vendor that any diagnostic work, sensor replacements, or software updates carried out to resolve that issue are supported by paperwork, as a recurring MIL could point to intermittent or unresolved concerns. With 53,229 miles recorded over approximately six years, this Astra has covered around 8,872 miles per year on average, which is broadly typical for a privately owned vehicle of its age and suggests regular rather than excessive use. The mileage progression across the MOT records appears consistent, with no dramatic spikes or unusual gaps that might indicate clocking or prolonged periods of standing. That said, the engine MIL failure in September 2025 followed by a clean pass in October 2025 implies the car has been in active service throughout, and the relatively modest annual mileage means mechanical wear on major drivetrain components should be moderate rather than severe. Routine servicing, particularly cambelt or timing chain inspection on the petrol engines, remains critical at this age regardless of mileage covered. Given the advisories recorded at the September 2025 failure, the front brake discs were noted as worn, pitted, or scored and the front brake pads were reported as wearing thin. Even though a clean pass was achieved subsequently, these advisories reflect components that were already approaching the threshold for attention and a buyer should inspect the front brakes carefully during a test drive. Listen for any brake shudder, grinding, or squeal under light or firm pedal application, and check visually through the spokes of the alloy wheels for the thickness of the inner and outer brake pads as well as the condition and lip corrosion of the disc surfaces. The 2026 failure also flagged both front tyres as worn close to the legal limit and worn on the inner edge, which can be symptomatic of front suspension wear such as perished bushes, weakened coil springs, or worn top mounts, so particular attention should be paid to any uneven tyre wear across the axle and to clunks or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces. Beyond the recorded MOT items, prospective buyers should carry out a thorough physical inspection appropriate for a six year old Astra. Examine all four tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking caused by age rather than tread wear, particularly as the inner edges have already required replacement on the front pair. Check the 12 volt battery for any signs of sluggish cranking, as batteries of this age frequently require replacement, and inspect under the bonnet for any evidence of fluid leaks, perished hoses, or corroded electrical connectors. Verify the service book history including cambelt or timing chain replacement intervals for the specific engine, ensure that brake fluid and coolant have been changed in line with calendar based schedules regardless of low mileage, and confirm that the seat belt rectification from August 2026 was carried out by a reputable garage with an invoice retained. A test drive should include checks of smooth clutch operation, absence of warning lights, steady idle, and consistent performance throughout the rev range.