2015 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · AF15 ONG

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 March 2026 resulted in a Pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive immediate indicator of roadworthiness. However, looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is mixed and worth careful scrutiny. The vehicle passed cleanly in 2021 and 2022, but from 2023 onwards a pattern of advisories and recurring front suspension concerns has emerged. Notably, the same nearside front top mount area was flagged as showing slight play in 2023, then listed as an advisory again in 2024, before culminating in a major failure in April 2025 for excessive wear or free play in the offside front Macpherson strut top bush or bearing. A further major failure followed in March 2026 for a deteriorated track rod end ball joint dust cover. This trajectory suggests that while the vehicle is currently passing, there are recurring structural wear points at the front suspension that have been progressively worsening over a three-year window. The recorded mileage of 67,224 miles over approximately eleven years equates to an annual average of around 6,100 miles, which is broadly typical for a small urban-oriented car of this age and broadly consistent with its likely usage as a second car or city runabout. The MOT record shows tests taken at reasonably regular intervals, with mileage clearly accumulating year on year, suggesting the vehicle has been in consistent use rather than left standing for prolonged periods. That said, for an eleven-year-old Vauxhall Adam with this mileage, the typical wear items such as suspension bushes, top mounts, drop links, and brake components are now entering the phase where original factory parts are likely to require replacement, as evidenced by the recurring front-end defects in the test history. The recurring front suspension advisories and failures are the primary area of concern and warrant close physical inspection. The track rod end dust cover failure on the nearside front indicates that the rubber gaiter has perished, allowing moisture and dirt to enter the ball joint, which will accelerate wear and potentially lead to a future MOT failure or, more seriously, compromised steering precision. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, as well as checking for uneven tyre wear across the front axle, vague steering, or a wandering sensation at speed. The strut top mount and bearing wear is a known weakness on this platform, and given that slight play was flagged in 2023 and 2024 before failing outright in 2025, it is reasonable to assume the opposite side components are similarly aged and may soon require attention. The buyer should also have the front subframe mounting points thoroughly inspected for corrosion, as an advisory was raised in 2024 regarding surface corrosion around the lower suspension arm mounting areas, which can progress to structural concern if left untreated, particularly given exposure to winter road salt. Beyond the documented defects, an eleven-year-old vehicle with this mileage profile requires a thorough age-appropriate inspection regardless of its MOT status. The tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking due to age-related rubber degradation, even if the tread depth appears adequate, and particular attention should be paid to the front pair since edge wear was flagged in early 2026. The 12V battery is likely nearing the end of its service life and should be load tested, as starting difficulties and intermittent electrical faults are common on vehicles of this vintage. The brake calipers, particularly the rear drums or calipers depending on specification, should be checked for seizing due to infrequent use, and the brake fluid should be sampled or have its service date verified, as it degrades hygroscopically over time and should ideally be renewed every two years regardless of mileage. The cooling system, including the radiator, expansion tank, and associated hoses, should be inspected for leaks and perished rubber, and a compression check or coolant pressure test would be prudent given the engine age. Finally, verifying a complete service history with documented timing belt or cam belt replacement intervals, along with oil and filter changes, will be essential to confirm the vehicle has been mechanically maintained to a satisfactory standard throughout its life.