2008 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · AA08 XYU
2008 Vauxhall Astra (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01 Jun 2008. Recorded mileage 90,954 miles. MOT expired on 02 Sept 2026. Taxed until 01 Sept 2027. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- VAUXHALL ASTRA
- Year / Origin
- 2008 · Peterborough
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 02 Sept 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Sept 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 90,954 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
AA08 XYU Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 04/09/2025
- 90,954 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
AA08 XYU MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2008 Vauxhall Astra (AA08 XYU) between August 2023 and September 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 04 September 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (4 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 22 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: “Nearside Rear Axle swivel pins and bushes swivel pin and/or bush excessively worn (5.1.2 (b) (i))”; “Offside Rear Axle swivel pins and bushes swivel pin and/or bush excessively worn (5.1.2 (b) (i))”; “Front Registration plate inscription illegible (0.1 (b))”.
AA08 XYU Mileage History
- 29/08/202379,545 mi
- 29/08/202379,545 mi
- 28/08/202485,041 mi+5,496 mi
- 28/08/202590,932 mi+5,891 mi
- 04/09/202590,954 mi+22 mi
Average of roughly 5,654 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with significant caution. This v
When inspecting this Astra, prioritise a thorough check of the underside. The MOT history shows a recurring 'not excessive' oil leak from the engine cam cover and a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber in 2025. You should negotiate the price downwards to account for the potential cost of addressing these leaks and the recently failed axle components.
Request a detailed service history to see if the recurring exhaust leaks and lighting issues noted in 2023 and 2024 have been professionally rectified. Given the recent failure regarding illegible registration plates and a non-functional horn, ensure all electrical components and external fittings are fully operational before committing to the purchase.
As a 1.6L petrol model, running costs are generally moderate for a car of this age. You can expect typical fuel economy for a 2008 Astra, though actual figures will depend on maintenance levels. The car falls into a standard insurance group for its class, but costs may vary based on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs may be higher than average due to the documented history of suspension wear (axle bushes and shock absorbers) and exhaust issues. Budget for regular replacement of consumables like tyres and brake pads, which have appeared as advisory or failure items in previous tests.
Focus heavily on the suspension and chassis. The 2025 MOT failure specifically cited excessively worn nearside and offside rear axle swivel pins and bushes, as well as a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber. Check for any signs of movement or knocking sounds when driving over bumps.
Additionally, inspect the engine bay for evidence of the ongoing oil leak mentioned in multiple MOT tests since 2023. Check the condition of the exhaust system, as it has been noted for deterioration and leaks in 2023 and 2024. Finally, ensure all lights, including the fog lamps and headlamp aim, are functioning correctly to avoid immediate post-purchase MOT issues.
This 2008 silver Vauxhall Astra has covered 90,954 miles, which is slightly above the model average of 6,750 miles per year. The MOT history shows a pattern of recurring issues, specifically regarding oil leaks, exhaust deterioration, and lighting. A recent failure in August 2025 highlighted significant wear to the rear axle bushes and shock absorbers, indicating substantial maintenance needs.
Aggregate data for this model shows a 78% MOT pass rate, with common failure points including headlamps, tyres, and engine components.
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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