2017 VAUXHALL VIVARO1.6L Diesel

The most recent MOT history for this Vauxhall Vivaro reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects on either occasion. The vehicle passed its test on 2025-10-13 after failing just three days earlier on 2025-10-10, both at the same mileage of 88,360. This suggests either a minor oversight in test administration or, more likely, a persistent but undetected issue that evaded the tester’s scrutiny. The previous cycle in 2024 followed the same pattern—failure on 2024-09-27 and a pass on 2024-10-07—again at identical mileages of 82,320. While the 2023 test at 70,954 miles passed without issue, the recurrence of failures at the 12-month interval implies a mechanical or structural condition that has not been properly addressed. The lack of specific defect codes in the failed tests makes it impossible to pinpoint the exact cause, but the repeated failures warrant immediate scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 88,360 miles over nine years aligns with typical usage patterns for this vehicle’s age, averaging around 9,800 miles annually. There are no obvious gaps or spikes in mileage that would suggest prolonged neglect or rapid wear, though the consistency of the 12-month test intervals—without any intermediate servicing—raises questions about the vehicle’s long-term maintenance. The absence of mileage discrepancies between tests also indicates that the odometer has not been tampered with, though this does not guarantee the accuracy of other service records. The most notable observation is the lack of any advisory notes or partial failures in the MOT history, which might have hinted at underlying issues before they escalated to a full failure. Given the repeated failures without specific defect codes, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components commonly associated with MOT rejections in this class of vehicle. The suspension system—particularly the rear suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers—should be examined for wear or damage, as these are frequent causes of test failures. The braking system, including caliper binding, uneven brake pad wear, and corrosion on discs or callipers, must be checked for any signs of failure that may have evaded the tester. Structural integrity, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, should be assessed for corrosion or damage, as these can lead to advisories or failures in later tests. The exhaust system, including joints and hangers, should also be inspected for leaks or excessive movement, as these are common failure points. Given the repeated failures, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to identify any latent issues before committing to the purchase.