2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · LM66 BHX

The 2016 Vauxhall Vivaro’s most recent MOT tests—conducted just five months ago on 24 December 2025—reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no defects being recorded. This inconsistency suggests either a technical oversight in the testing process or, more likely, that the vehicle passed under exceptional circumstances where minor issues were overlooked. The lack of any recorded advisories or defects across all five tests implies either diligent pre-test preparation or a vehicle that has been maintained to pass the most basic MOT criteria without addressing underlying wear. The trend is neither improving nor worsening—it is static, but the repeated failures at the same mileage (97,716 miles) in December 2025 raise questions about whether critical components were deliberately bypassed or if the tester missed subtle but serious issues. The recorded mileage of 97,716 miles over ten years equates to approximately 9,772 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and type. There are no significant gaps or abrupt jumps in mileage between tests, indicating consistent usage rather than prolonged neglect or extended periods of inactivity. The most notable pattern is the clustering of tests in late 2024 and late 2025, with just a six-month gap between the 2024 January tests and the 2024 July failure, followed by another six months until the December 2025 failures. This suggests the vehicle was likely tested close to its MOT expiry dates without intermediate maintenance, which could mask deeper issues. Given the repeated failures and the absence of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and bushings, as these are common failure points in this model. The repeated test failures at the same mileage also warrant scrutiny of the braking system—binding calipers, worn brake pads, or uneven disc thickness could have been present but not formally noted. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and sills, should be examined for corrosion, as this is a frequent cause of MOT failures in older commercial vans. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions components should be checked for leaks or damage, as these are often overlooked but critical for both performance and legal compliance.