2010 Vauxhall Zafira 1.7L Diesel · AF60 TPO

This Zafira presents a roadworthiness profile defined by what is conspicuously absent from the record. Across five MOT entries spanning late 2023 through late 2025, the vehicle has not recorded a single advisory, defect, or component failure, with the most recent test on 5 November 2025 returning a clean pass. The two failures logged during this period (October 2024 and October 2025) both show no defects recorded against them, which strongly indicates advisories rather than genuine mechanical failures prompted refusals, or that pre-test rectification occurred between failure and re-test. Either way, the underlying mechanical condition passing scrutiny at three consecutive tests suggests the structural, braking, suspension, and emissions integrity of the vehicle is currently sound. The pattern is one of stable, consistent roadworthiness rather than deterioration, with no chronic wear points emerging across the available history. Mileage accumulation tells a story of genuinely light use. At 72,050 miles over sixteen years, this Zafira has covered approximately 4,500 miles annually, well below the typical 8,000 to 10,000 miles per year expected of a family MPV of this era. The MOT-to-MOT gaps in recorded mileage cannot be precisely calculated without odometer readings between tests, but the overall trajectory confirms a vehicle that has spent significant portions of its life either stationary or used only for short journeys. Mechanically, this usage profile carries specific implications: brake discs and pads are likely to exhibit surface corrosion from infrequent use rather than wear from friction, rubber components in the suspension and drivetrain (such as anti-roll bar bushes, subframe mounts, and driveshaft boots) may have aged and hardened despite low mileage, and the engine will have accumulated internal oxidation and moisture from cold starts without reaching full operating temperature. Seals and gaskets, particularly around the cam cover and oil filter housing, are commonly affected by such usage patterns on Zafira units of this generation. For a prospective buyer, the clean advisory record removes the usual reference points for targeted inspection, which makes a physical examination and test drive all the more important. Given the low-mileage context, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the front and rear brake discs; light rust on the surface is normal, but deep pitting, lipping around the outer edge, or binding calipers that prevent even pad application can develop during extended periods of disuse. On the test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps, which would indicate perished bushes or worn lower arm linkages, and feel for any vagueness or knocking through the steering rack, a known weakness on Zafiras of this vintage. Check for oil misting or weeping around the upper engine area, and inspect the underside for any signs of surface corrosion on subframe and suspension components, particularly given the vehicle's age. Finally, the buyer should verify the reason for the two recent failure entries by obtaining the actual refusal notices from the DVSA database, as no defects are shown on the summary. The Zafira's powertrain and ancillaries deserve specific checks regardless of the MOT outcome: scan the engine bay for coolant leaks around the thermostat housing and water pump area, common failure points on this generation, and during the road test, confirm smooth clutch take-up and absence of any judder that could indicate a worn dual-mass flywheel or pressure plate. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking consistent with age rather than wear, and the exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion at the mounting brackets and joints. Given the extended low-use profile, a full service including fresh brake fluid, coolant, and a thorough inspection of all rubber gaiters and seals would be prudent before committing to purchase.