2014 Vauxhall Zafira 2.0L Diesel · KE14 AAU

A recurring weakness in the suspension defines this Zafira – two separate MOTs have recorded a fractured rear coil spring, first on the nearside in 2021 and again on the off‑side in 2023, each flagged as a major failure. The pattern suggests that the rear suspension may be prone to fatigue or that any previous repair work was not fully resolved. Alongside the spring issues, the car has repeatedly been warned about tyre tread approaching the legal limit on all four corners, and the brake pedal has been noted as wearing smooth, indicating that the braking system is approaching the end of its service life. The latest MOT in September 2026 passed, but the same set of advisories – deteriorating registration plates and tyre wear – reappeared, showing that while the vehicle is currently road‑legal, the underlying wear points have not been addressed. At 89,811 mi over twelve years the average annual mileage sits around 7,500 mi, which is typical for a family hatchback of this age. The MOT history shows no long gaps in testing, implying the car has been driven consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This steady usage means wear on consumables such as tyres, brake components and suspension bushings will be proportional to mileage rather than sudden spikes, but the mileage also confirms that the rear coil springs have endured a substantial number of load cycles, heightening the relevance of the recorded fractures. For a prospective buyer, a thorough inspection of the rear suspension is essential. With the coil springs previously failing, check for any audible clunk or knock when driving over bumps, verify that the rear ride height is even, and look for any sagging or uneven tyre wear that could indicate a lingering weakness. Examine the spring mounts and surrounding sub‑frame for corrosion or cracked bushings, and confirm that any replacement springs have been fitted with the correct torque specifications. On a test drive, feel the brake pedal for a spongy or overly soft response that would corroborate the “smooth wearing” advisory, and listen for any unusual noises from the brake calipers or discs. The tyre condition demands immediate attention – all four tyres were flagged as being close to the legal tread limit, with a nail in the nearside rear tyre noted in the most recent test. Replace the tyres promptly and inspect the wheel rims for the slight damage recorded on the nearside front rim in 2022. Verify that the nearside rear registration‑plate lamp is operational, as it has been recorded inoperative on two occasions, and replace the deteriorated front and rear plates to avoid future advisories. Addressing these specific items will resolve the current MOT advisories and provide a clearer picture of the vehicle’s roadworthiness before committing to purchase.