1998 VAUXHALL BRAVA2.5L DIESEL

The latest MOT on 23 Nov 2011 failed, with the car recorded at 108,615 mi. The failure list is dominated by extensive corrosion on the front and rear body structures (off‑side and near‑side) that “seriously affect its strength” within 30 cm of the mounting points, a major front‑exhaust leak, and several brake‑pipe issues (inadequate support and slight damage). There are also minor items such as a slightly worn front‑shock bush, a small windscreen chip and a damaged rear position lamp. A clear pattern emerges: the vehicle suffers progressive structural corrosion and a few recurring safety‑related components (exhaust, brake pipe, suspension mounting). Earlier tests in 2010 and 2009 show a mix of passes and fails, but the 2010‑11‑01 failure already highlighted a fractured front suspension arm, and the 2009‑11‑09 fail noted an insecure steering column bracket. The recurrence of chassis and suspension corrosion, plus the new exhaust leak, suggests the condition is deteriorating rather than stabilising. Mileage is very low for a 28‑year‑old car – about 3,900 mi per year. Such low usage can mean the car has spent long periods idle, which often accelerates rust on the under‑body and chassis. Conversely, the low mileage does not guarantee reduced wear on components that have been exposed to the elements; in this case the corrosion appears more severe than mileage would suggest. For a buyer, the first inspection should focus on the under‑body and chassis: look for rust, especially around the front and rear mounting points mentioned in the MOT.