2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · AS64 MEE

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-23 resulted in a clean pass, marking a significant improvement over the vehicle’s previous history, where it failed in both 2025 and 2026 with major defects including a fractured rear coil spring and severely compromised front sub-frame rigidity. While the 2026 failure highlighted critical structural and mechanical issues, the intervening years show a pattern of advisories rather than outright failures, suggesting that while the vehicle has encountered wear-related problems, the owner has likely addressed most issues before they escalated to MOT failure thresholds. The fact that the latest test passed without recorded defects indicates either effective maintenance or that the vehicle has reached a stage where the most severe wear has been mitigated, though the advisories from prior tests—particularly those related to suspension and brakes—demand ongoing attention to prevent recurrence. The recorded mileage of 75,596 miles for a 2016 Vauxhall Adam reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,560 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age, though it does not necessarily indicate optimal maintenance discipline. Lower mileage could imply periods of prolonged standing, which accelerates wear from corrosion, brake binding, and fluid degradation, while higher mileage would suggest more aggressive use and accelerated component fatigue in suspension, brakes, and drivetrain systems. The absence of significant mileage spikes in the past decade suggests consistent but not necessarily rigorous driving habits, which may explain why the vehicle has not yet reached the point of catastrophic failure despite the structural and suspension advisories noted in earlier MOTs. Given the Vauxhall Adam’s age and the recurring advisories—particularly the nearside front shock absorber misting, brake pad wear, and tyre edge wear—buyers should conduct a thorough inspection focusing on the suspension system, braking components, and tyre condition. On a test drive, listen for uneven suspension clunks or rattles from the near-side front shocks, which may indicate further oil leakage or internal damage. Check for binding or excessive play in the brake calipers, as corrosion or misalignment from prolonged standing can cause uneven brake pad wear or a shuddering feel under braking. Inspect the front tyres for lateral wear patterns, which could signal alignment or suspension issues, and verify that the tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm. Additionally, visually assess the front sub-frame for any signs of further corrosion or structural compromise, as the 2026 failure highlighted significant rigidity issues that could worsen with continued use. For fluid systems, check the coolant level and condition, as the empty bottle advisory suggests potential overheating risks or leaks that may require attention. In addition to the mechanical checks above, buyers should also verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for suspension and braking components, as the Vauxhall Adam’s design may not have the same longevity as higher-end rivals. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially if the tyres have been stored for extended periods. Test the 12V battery for adequate charge and overall health, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain or corrosion in terminals. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the exhaust emissions system, as the Vauxhall Adam’s catalytic converter and sensors may degrade over time, particularly with the high mileage and potential for overheating. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, fluid servicing—such as brake fluid flushes and coolant replacement—should be prioritised according to manufacturer recommendations, as these systems degrade over time even with low mileage.