2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · AL12 APG

Front‑suspension components and tyre wear dominate the MOT record, with repeated advisories on both front track‑rod end dust‑covers, front shock absorber oil misting and a persistent front‑sub‑frame corrosion note, while a dangerous failure in 2025 was triggered by a near‑side front tyre tread falling below the legal limit. The most recent test on 17 August 2026 confirmed a pass, but the same dust‑cover issues re‑appeared, indicating that the underlying wear has not been fully resolved despite the vehicle remaining roadworthy to date. At 71,300 mi for a ten‑year‑old van the average annual mileage sits around 7,100 mi, which is within normal usage patterns for a light‑commercial vehicle. MOTs have been recorded annually with no prolonged gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been regularly presented for inspection and any emergent defects have been addressed in a timely fashion. This mileage level implies moderate wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension bushings, but does not alone point to accelerated deterioration. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front steering and suspension assembly. Inspect the track‑rod end dust‑covers for cracks or missing material and verify that the ball joints move freely without clunking when the wheel is rocked at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions. While the MOT notes only dust‑cover damage, worn ball‑joint seals can lead to joint play and steering wander; listen for any knocking over bumps and feel for any looseness in the steering column. The front sub‑frame corrosion advisory, although not classified as serious, warrants a visual check for rust pockets, especially around mounting points, and a tap test for any hollowing that could compromise structural integrity. Tyre condition should be scrutinised closely. Both front tyres have been flagged repeatedly for being close to the legal tread limit and one tyre actually failed in 2025, so verify current tread depth on all four wheels and look for uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension arms. The shock absorbers have a history of light oil misting on both sides, so examine the shock bodies for oil stains and test ride the vehicle for excessive bounce, bottoming out or a soft, mushy feel in the front. Additionally, the handbrake travel advisory and parking‑brake travel note suggest the rear braking system may be nearing the end of its service life; check for a firm, consistent pull when the handbrake is applied and listen for any dragging or squealing. Finally, the rear tyre cracking advisory and the TPMS warning light should be addressed by inspecting the tyre sidewalls for dry rot and confirming that the TPMS sensors are functioning, as faulty sensors can mask tyre condition issues.