2016 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6L Diesel · YW65 FYV

The 1.6 diesel Zafira typically returns 50-60 mpg on a mix of driving conditions, though low-mileage examples may not achieve the upper end due to short trip patterns. Road tax for a 2016 diesel of this engine size is usually £30-£165 annually depending on exact CO2 emissions, but diesel vehicles face an additional diesel supplement in some zones. Insurance falls within group 15-18, making it moderately affordable for a seven-seat MPV.

Maintenance costs for this generation of Zafira tend to be reasonable, with parts widely available and labour rates lower than premium marques. Annual servicing averages £180-£280 depending on whether an independent garage or main dealer is used. Common replacement items include brakes, clutches, and timing belt components. Annual running costs are estimated at £1,100-£1,400 covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.

Both front tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit at the August 2026 MOT, so inspect the remaining tread depth and check for uneven wear patterns that might suggest suspension or alignment issues. Given the very low mileage for a ten-year-old vehicle, pay particular attention to signs of corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms — Zafiras of this era can develop rust in these areas, and low-mileage cars sometimes suffer more from infrequent use washing away protective coatings.

The model aggregate data shows that shock absorbers, anti-roll bar components, and engine MIL (malfunction indicator lamp) issues are the most common MOT failure points for this Zafira generation. Physically check that the car sits level at rest, push down on each corner to test suspension rebound, and listen for knocking over bumps. For the diesel engine, ensure no warning lights illuminate on startup and that the exhaust emits no excessive smoke, particularly under load. A diagnostic scan checking for stored fault codes is advisable.

Inspect the underside for oil leaks (particularly around the turbo and oil filter housing), check coolant levels and colour, and verify that the EGR valve and DPF are functioning correctly. For a seven-seat MPV, examine all seat folding mechanisms and ensure the third-row seats latch securely. Test all electrical functions including air conditioning, electric windows, and central locking, as repairs on these can accumulate.