2014 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · NV14 AAU

The most recent MOT test on the Vauxhall Adam was conducted on 2025-07-22 and passed, though it revealed persistent advisories related to the front suspension shock absorbers, which exhibited light misting of oil on both sides. This trend of recurring oil misting in the shock absorbers—first noted in 2024 and continuing through to 2025—suggests a maintenance issue that has not been fully resolved, as it appears in multiple tests without a clear resolution. The 2024 test also included a minor failure for a defective near-side front windscreen wiper blade, which was rectified, but the broader suspension advisories indicate a pattern of wear that may require closer attention. The vehicle’s failure in 2024 highlighted a major defect in the near-side track rod end ball joint dust cover, which was likely the primary cause of the test failure, reinforcing the need for proactive servicing to prevent further mechanical degradation. The recorded mileage of 103,652 miles for a 12-year-old Vauxhall Adam reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,638 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this vehicle’s age and class. However, the MOT history shows some periods of standing or lighter use, particularly between 2022 and 2024, where the vehicle passed without defects, suggesting it may have been in storage or used sparingly during those years. This intermittent use can accelerate wear in certain components, such as seals, gaskets, and suspension elements, as they can dry out or degrade more quickly when not in regular operation. Additionally, prolonged idling or infrequent driving can lead to issues like brake fluid degradation, battery drain, and corrosion in standing vehicles, so a thorough inspection of these areas would be prudent. Given the recurring advisories on the front suspension shock absorbers with oil misting, the buyer should inspect the vehicle’s suspension system for signs of excessive play, uneven ride quality, or unusual noises such as clunks or rattles, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed. The misting of oil in the shock absorbers often indicates internal failure or leakage, which can lead to reduced damping performance, leading to poor handling, suspension binding, or even complete failure if left unaddressed. During a test drive, listen for a lack of responsive handling, excessive body roll, or a feeling of the vehicle becoming unstable, especially on uneven surfaces. The track rod end ball joint failure from 2024 is a critical concern, as it compromises steering accuracy and alignment, potentially causing misalignment-related wear on tyres, brakes, and suspension components. Immediate replacement of the affected ball joint and associated bushings is strongly recommended to prevent further mechanical issues. For the remaining components, the buyer should focus on the vehicle’s age and the historical advisories, particularly those related to brake wear and fluid condition. The 2020 MOT noted thin front brake pads, which may have since been serviced, but it is advisable to check the brake system for signs of uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs and backing plates, especially if the vehicle has been standing for extended periods. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as standing vehicles can suffer from fluid degradation, leading to reduced braking performance. Additionally, the near-side registration plate lamp failure in 2024 is a minor but necessary repair to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Beyond the suspension and brakes, a practical inspection should include checking the tyre tread depth, sidewall condition for cracking or perishing, and ensuring there are no signs of uneven wear that could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a comprehensive service history check would be beneficial to confirm that all scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups, has been conducted. The 12V battery should also be tested for health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure, and the ignition system should be inspected for signs of wear or electrical issues.