2012 Vauxhall Ampera 1.4L Hybrid electric (clean) · AP12 AMP

A recurring pattern of advisories around the nearside rear tyre and a single dangerous brake pad defect define the MOT history of this 2012 Vauxhall Ampera. Across seven recorded tests since 2021, the nearside rear tyre has appeared five times, flagging both wear down to the legal limit (at 3mm in 2024 and 2.5mm in 2026) and earlier perishing/cracking in 2021. This consistent recurrence on the same wheel position suggests either a chronic tracking or suspension geometry issue, uneven load distribution, or simply sustained use of the same corner wearing through tyres faster than the others. The most recent test on 23 January 2026 recorded a pass with advisories for pitted front brake discs and that same nearside rear tyre now at the 2.5mm mark, meaning a replacement is overdue before the next annual test. The 2024 dangerous failure for an incorrectly mounted nearside rear outer brake pad is a serious red flag; while it was rectified within two days for the pass, incorrectly seated pads can lead to uneven wear, reduced braking efficiency, and potential caliper or disc damage, so a thorough inspection of the rear braking system is essential. Recorded mileage of 108,862 miles over roughly 14 years equates to an average of approximately 7,776 miles annually, which is broadly typical for the vehicle's age bracket. The mileage progression across tests has been steady rather than dramatic, with no sudden large jumps or extended gaps that would suggest either heavy motorway use or significant periods off the road. This consistent annual accumulation means wear items such as brake discs, pads, suspension bushes, coil springs, and tyres have all been worked at a normal rate, and there is no evidence from the records of a low-mileage scenario where components might have suffered from prolonged standing (such as seized brakes or deteriorated rubber). That said, the Ampera's high-voltage hybrid drivetrain carries its own considerations independent of MOT-recorded mileage, and a battery health check is advisable given the vehicle's age and accumulated use. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection areas should centre on the nearside rear corner where so many advisories have clustered. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed humps or potholes, as this could indicate worn bushes, top mounts, or the corroded coil spring flagged in 2023 which may have progressed. Pay close attention to brake pedal feel, specifically checking for any pulling to one side under firm braking, a soft or spongy pedal, or vibration through the pedal suggesting the pitted front discs (noted on the 2026 test) have worn beyond serviceable limits. Inspect the nearside rear tyre wall and tread carefully for uneven shoulder wear, and verify the rear brake caliper carriers and pad seating are correct, given the history of incorrect pad mounting. Finally, check all four headlamps for alignment, as the 2022 failure for nearside front headlamp aim being too high suggests the levelling mechanism or adjustment may need verification, and conduct a slow-speed manoeuvring check to confirm the steering is centred and the vehicle tracks straight without wander, which would help identify any underlying geometry issues contributing to the consistent nearside rear tyre wear.