2018 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · AF18 TSY

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 November 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing the broadly positive trend observed over the preceding two years. Looking at the chronological sequence, the vehicle passed unremarkably in 2023 and 2021, then presented an isolated lighting issue in March 2024 when the headlamp aim was found to be too high on both sides, causing a fail at that test. The same visit did, however, flag the steering column top bearing as slightly worn, an advisory that had first appeared back in March 2022. The vehicle was subsequently re-presented and passed the following November, and the 2025 test remained clean. The recurring advisory on the steering column top bearing is the principal historical concern, but the absence of any further advisories at the most recent test indicates the maintenance trajectory is presently stable rather than deteriorating. With 65,793 miles recorded on an eight-year-old vehicle, the Astra has averaged roughly 8,224 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a car of this age and segment. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and there is no evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that might raise concerns about motorway wear on the clutch, turbo, or drivetrain. The annual figure points to a vehicle that has been used regularly for mixed-purpose motoring, which is generally favourable for component longevity as seals, bearings, and brake systems remain active rather than succumbing to standing-related degradation. Consistent use of this nature tends to preserve mechanical health provided routine servicing has been kept up to date, which should be confirmed via stamped service history documents. Turning to the recurring steering column top bearing advisory noted in 2022 and again in 2024, this is a wear item that warrants close physical inspection at the point of purchase. The component supports the steering shaft just beneath the steering wheel and, as it deteriorates, drivers may notice a slight clunk, knock, or perceptible looseness when turning the wheel, particularly over uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres. On a test drive, the buyer should rock the steering wheel from lock to lock while stationary and listen for any grating, clicking, or vertical play in the column shroud. The bearing itself is generally an inexpensive component to replace but, if ignored, can progress into more noticeable column movement and potentially affect MOT outcomes in future tests. Beyond the recorded advisories, the 2022 test also flagged perishing and cracking on both rear tyres, alongside a nearside rear tyre cut, which is a reminder that the rubber fitted at the time of viewing may not be the rubber present during those tests. Given the vehicle is now eight years old, the buyer should carefully inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing, cracking between the tread grooves, and check the date code stamped on the sidewall, as tyres degrade with age regardless of tread depth. Equally important on a vehicle of this age and mileage are the 12V battery condition, brake disc corrosion around the outer edges from light use, and the calendar-based servicing of brake fluid, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid where applicable. Verification of a complete service book, evidence of recent brake fluid renewal, and confirmation that the cambelt or timing chain service intervals have been observed on this particular engine variant would round out a thorough pre-purchase evaluation.