2017 Vauxhall Zafira 1.4L Petrol · SD17 ABU

This Vauxhall Zafira’s roadworthiness record shows a concerning trend of recurring failures, with the most recent test on 25 February 2026 revealing a near-legal tyre condition that narrowly passed. The failure just three days prior—on 18 February—highlighted an excessively worn offside front suspension ball joint alongside the same tyre issue, indicating a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than isolated incidents. The 2025 failures were more severe, with rear brake pads at critical thickness and front tyres below the legal limit, alongside an unresolved engine malfunction indicator. While the 2024 test was clean aside from minor front brake disc wear, the subsequent failures suggest either inconsistent servicing or a lack of proactive attention to critical components. The mileage progression of 57,698 miles today reflects a steady but unremarkable usage rate of approximately 6,400 miles annually, typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the MOT history reveals irregular gaps in testing, particularly the absence of any records between the 2025 failures and the 2026 tests, which span nearly a year. This suggests either prolonged periods without inspection or potential off-roadway use that wasn’t formally documented. The 2024 to 2025 jump from 40,598 to 50,313 miles—nearly 10,000 miles in under a year—implies either heavy usage or a period of neglect before the 2025 failures surfaced. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front suspension, particularly the offside ball joint, which failed in February 2026. The recurring tyre issues—both front and rear—demand verification of tread depth and edge wear, as the 2025 failures suggest basic upkeep was overlooked. The rear brake pads, which were dangerously thin in January 2025, should be measured again; if they remain below 1.5mm, the entire rear brake system warrants scrutiny for consistent wear patterns. The 2025 engine malfunction indicator (MIL) was unresolved, so a diagnostic check for stored fault codes is essential, as persistent issues could indicate deeper drivetrain or emissions-related problems. Structural components, such as wheel arches and suspension mounts, should also be examined for corrosion or fatigue, especially given the vehicle’s age and mileage.