2017 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · KS67 ADZ

The most recent test on 19 February 2026 at 134,576 miles returned a clean pass with no defects recorded. That result resolves a failure twelve days earlier at 134,237 miles where the tester flagged a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system and a missing nearside steering rack gaiter. The gaiter defect is significant; it exposes the rack to dirt ingress and accelerated wear. A clean pass so recently suggests the remedial work was completed, yet the recurrence of failures at each annual cycle since 2025 indicates a maintenance pattern that reacts to test deadlines rather than preventing defects. Mileage sits high for a nine-year-old Astra at 134,576 miles, averaging nearly 15,000 miles per year. A substantial gap exists between the August 2021 test at 60,974 miles and the February 2025 test at 118,986 miles, covering almost 58,000 miles in three and a half years with no MOT record visible. Since the 2025 test the car has accumulated over 15,500 miles in twelve months, confirming heavy current usage. That rate accelerates wear on suspension bushes, brake discs, and drivetrain components beyond typical private-use norms. The 2025 failure centred on lighting geometry; the offside headlamp aim was obviously incorrect and the nearside reflector showed slight deterioration. Those faults point to possible front-end impact damage or poor-quality replacement units. The 2026 steering rack gaiter failure raises a direct structural concern for the steering system; a buyer must verify the rack itself shows no play or fluid weep. Tyre pressure monitoring faults are often sensor battery failures at this age but require a diagnostic scan to confirm the module communicates correctly. No advisories for corrosion or brake imbalance appear in the visible history, which is positive for a high-mileage example. However, the absence of recorded advisories does not guarantee clean underbody metal; the 2021 test at 60,974 miles showed no defects but the subsequent three-year gap hides the corrosion timeline. Inspect the rear beam axle mounts, front subframe, and brake pipe runs thoroughly. The steering rack gaiter replacement needs confirmation of correct fitment, and the headlamp alignment should be re-checked under load to rule out suspension settlement.