2013 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Petrol · NX63 OVL

The vehicle's most recent DVSA MOT test on 9 January 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, and the prior test on 24 January 2025 also returned a clean pass, indicating a broadly stable maintenance trend at the time of the most recent examinations. However, the history shows a failed test on 24 January 2025 alongside the pass recorded that same day, which typically indicates a retest was completed following rectification work, and a more substantive failure on 31 January 2024 raised three major defects concerning the exhaust system emissions and integrity, the nearside track rod end, along with advisories regarding brake pedal travel and a driver's view obstruction. The pattern suggests the vehicle has experienced some genuine mechanical issues within the last two years rather than being entirely trouble free, although the most recent outcome demonstrates that these concerns were addressed prior to retest and have not reappeared at subsequent examinations. With 82,636 miles recorded over approximately 13 years, the vehicle has averaged around 6,357 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and is consistent with regular but not extensive use. There is no evidence in the supplied records of significant mileage gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor any indication of rapid accumulation that would point to high wear across the drivetrain. That said, a 13 year old crossover with this mileage will have covered sufficient road exposure for normal wear items such as suspension components, brake friction material, and tyres to have been replaced on more than one occasion, and the cumulative effect of UK road conditions over this period, including surface water, winter salt, and potholes, places particular stress on underbody and suspension parts. Given the failures recorded in 2024, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the steering and suspension geometry, as the nearside track rod end was previously found to have excessive play. On a test drive, listen for any clunking or knocking from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and be alert to vague or wandering steering response, uneven inner or outer tyre wear on the nearside front, or a reluctance to settle straight ahead after cornering. The track rod end should be physically inspected for any free play with the wheel off the ground, and a four wheel alignment check is prudent following any steering component replacement. The exhaust system should likewise be examined thoroughly, both visually underneath the vehicle and by listening for any ticking, blowing, or hissing noises from the engine bay or under the car, with particular attention to the front pipe, manifold gasket, and joint integrity, since the previous test recorded a major gas leak alongside an out of specification Lambda reading, both of which can indicate failed lambda sensors, deteriorated exhaust manifold gaskets, or pre catalyst issues. The 2024 advisory regarding excessive brake pedal travel warrants careful assessment of the braking system, including checking for fluid leaks around the master cylinder, examining the servo for any signs of internal failure, and verifying that the brake pedal feels firm under sustained pressure rather than sinking gradually toward the floor. Beyond the specific advisories, this 13 year old Chevrolet Trax warrants several age related checks that are not always captured during routine MOT testing. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and any signs of age related degradation, even if the tread depth remains adequate, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age irrespective of mileage. The 12 volt battery should be load tested, as prolonged standing or short journeys common to lower mileage urban use can shorten battery life significantly. Brake discs, particularly on vehicles that have spent time parked or used only for short trips, can exhibit advanced corrosion on the friction surfaces and around the hat area, and calipers may be prone to binding due to infrequent use, so a test of warm braking performance from higher speeds is recommended to detect any judder, pulling, or excessive pedal effort. The brake fluid should be changed in line with manufacturer schedules, typically every two to three years regardless of mileage, and the coolant and automatic transmission fluid if fitted should similarly be verified for condition and replacement history. Finally, verify a complete service book with stamps at appropriate intervals, confirm that timing belt or chain replacement has been carried out at the correct mileage threshold according to the manufacturer's schedule, and inspect the underbody carefully for any emerging corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, subframes, and brake line runs, as a 2013 vehicle is entering the age range where structural corrosion advisories first begin to appear on MOT records.