2003 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · WF53 AAK
2003 Vauxhall Astra (1.7L, diesel). First registered 03 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 199,135 miles. MOT expired on 27 Apr 2024.
- Make & Model
- VAUXHALL ASTRA
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Exeter
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 27 Apr 2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 199,135 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.7L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Archived Record
Registration no longer recorded by DVLA. This usually means the vehicle is now using a private plate.
WF53 AAK Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 29/04/2023
- 199,135 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (5 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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WF53 AAK Mileage History
- 04/04/2022194,515 mi
- 28/04/2022194,771 mi+256 mi
- 29/04/2023199,135 mi+4,364 mi
Average of roughly 4,329 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
WF53 AAK MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Vauxhall Astra (WF53 AAK) between April 2022 and April 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 29 April 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (5 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Steering (1 issue), Bodywork (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 11 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Brake pedal anti-slip provision missing (1.1.2 (c))”; “Offside Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.1.3 (b) (i))”; “Front Brake disc significantly and obviously worn (1.1.14 (a) (i))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This 2003 Vauxhall Astra presents significant risks due to its high mileage and inconsistent MOT history. While the recent 2023 MOT was passed, the 2022 failure and repeated 2021 failures raise concerns about hidden mechanical issues.
Prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection by a trusted garage, focusing on the diesel engine, transmission, and suspension. Verify service history to confirm maintenance consistency. Negotiate aggressively given the high mileage and MOT inconsistencies. Be wary of 'no defects recorded' failures, which may indicate minor but recurring issues. Check for rust in the white bodywork, common in older vehicles.
Diesel fuel economy for this 1.686cc engine is likely poor by modern standards, with estimated 30-35 mpg. Road tax in 2003 would have been £150 annually for diesel vehicles over 15 years old. Insurance groups for 2003 models typically fall in the mid-range (group 15-25). Maintenance costs will be high due to age, with potential expenses for timing belts, water pumps, and diesel particulate filters. Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,500.
Inspect the engine for oil leaks or excessive smoke, which could indicate worn piston rings. Check suspension components for wear given the high mileage. Examine the white paintwork for deep scratches or rust spots, common in older cars. Investigate the cause of the 2022 and 2021 MOT failures - 'no defects recorded' may mask issues like faulty sensors or minor bodywork. Test drive for unusual noises or handling problems.
The 2003 Vauxhall Astra has accumulated 199,135 miles, exceeding typical usage for its age. While the 2023 MOT showed no defects, three MOT failures between 2021-2022 (all with 'no defects recorded') suggest potential reliability concerns. No model-specific reliability data is available, but the vehicle's age and mileage warrant caution.
No aggregate MOT data available for the Vauxhall Astra model to assess general reliability trends.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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