2018 Vauxhall Crossland 1.6L Diesel · AP18 BVF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 May 2026, resulted in a failure because the exhaust emissions were measured above the manufacturer’s prescribed limit. In addition, the test recorded advisories for slight play in the off‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint and the near‑side front suspension arm ball joint. Compared with the preceding years, the record shows a gradual accumulation of issues – earlier tests were clean or only noted minor brake‑disc wear, while this year introduces both an emissions failure and front‑suspension concerns, indicating a maintenance trend that is beginning to deteriorate. At eight years old the vehicle has logged 84 700 miles, averaging roughly 10 600 miles per annum. This usage is within the normal range for a family estate and does not suggest excessive short‑trip abuse or unusually high mileage that would accelerate wear of major components. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would hint at long periods of storage, so the wear observed is consistent with steady, moderate use over its life. The emissions failure is most commonly caused by a deteriorating catalytic converter, a faulty oxygen sensor, or an inefficient fuel‑delivery system. A prospective buyer should have the exhaust system inspected, with particular attention to the condition of the converter, sensor operation, and any signs of exhaust leaks that could affect performance and fuel consumption. The ball‑joint advisories point to early wear in the front suspension geometry; on a test drive the driver should listen for clunking when turning the steering wheel at low speed, feel for any looseness in the steering feel, and check for uneven tyre wear that may develop if the joints are not corrected. The rear brake‑disc advisory from 2025 and the front brake‑disc advisory from 2024 indicate that both axles have discs that are pitted or scored; while they were not deemed unsafe at the time, the progressive wear will likely require disc replacement within the next few thousand miles, especially if the vehicle is driven hard or frequently in wet conditions. The front exhaust flexi‑section noted as deteriorated in 2025 should also be examined for cracks or corrosion that could cause rattles, reduced exhaust efficiency, or premature failure of the downstream catalytic converter. Beyond the specific MOT items, the car’s age means the buyer should perform a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or age‑related perishing, regardless of tread depth. The 12‑volt battery, now approaching a decade, should be load‑tested and its terminals checked for corrosion. Since the vehicle has likely been standing for periods between services, it is prudent to verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced according to the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, as these fluids degrade with time even if mileage is modest. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any suspension bushings or mounts show no signs of dry rot or excessive play, ensuring the car remains structurally sound and safe for continued road use.