2015 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · BD15 CLJ

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 2025-07-24—just under a year ago—shows a concerning pattern of two consecutive failures at the same mileage (106,229 miles) before passing, despite no defects being recorded on either attempt. This suggests either a test centre error, a temporary mechanical issue resolved between tests, or a failure to report minor faults that would have warranted a fail. The previous cycle in 2024-07-03 repeated the same anomaly, with two tests at 100,829 miles yielding identical results. While the 2023 test at 94,590 miles passed without issue, the lack of defects across all records makes it impossible to identify a specific recurring mechanical fault. The vehicle’s roadworthiness status remains technically compliant, but the repeated test failures at identical mileages warrant further scrutiny. The recorded mileage progression of roughly 5,400 miles annually (106,229 miles in July 2025) aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the absence of intermediate tests between 2023 and 2024 raises questions about maintenance consistency. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 11 months, during which the vehicle accumulated 6,237 miles—a moderate but not excessive increase. No advisories or partial failures appear in the record, which suggests either diligent servicing or a lack of pre-MOT checks for minor wear. However, the repeated test failures at the same mileage in consecutive years imply either a systematic oversight or an undocumented issue that only surfaced under test conditions. Given the lack of specific faults in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components that often fail without warning. Focus on the suspension—particularly the rear bushings and coil springs—for excessive play or corrosion, as these are common failure points in Astra models of this age. The braking system should be thoroughly checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs, especially if the repeated test failures hinted at a brake-related issue. Structural integrity is also critical; inspect the wheel arches, sills, and subframe for rust penetration, as this can compromise safety without immediate MOT fail criteria. Finally, verify the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter, which is prone to failure in vehicles of this mileage.