2009 Vauxhall Zafira 1.9L Diesel · BJ09 FKS

The Vauxhall Zafira’s most recent MOT, conducted on 3 June 2026 at 93,472 miles, passed without defects, marking a notable improvement from the previous two tests. The vehicle’s roadworthiness has fluctuated significantly over the past two years, with a failure in July 2025 followed by two consecutive passes in July 2024 and July 2023. The July 2025 failure was particularly severe, flagging multiple critical issues—exposed tyre ply, heavily corroded brake pipes, imbalanced rear brakes, and structural corrosion in the sub-frame and suspension arms—suggesting either deferred maintenance or a lack of proactive servicing. While the June 2026 pass indicates these issues have since been addressed, the recurring corrosion and brake wear patterns in prior tests warrant close scrutiny. The absence of defects in the latest test does not negate the need for a thorough inspection, as corrosion and brake degradation are progressive risks that may not always manifest immediately. The recorded mileage of 93,472 miles over 17 years—approximately 5,500 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the frequency of corrosion-related failures. The gap between the July 2025 failure and the June 2026 pass (roughly 11 months) aligns with the typical MOT cycle, but the vehicle’s inactivity during this period may have exacerbated corrosion issues. The near-identical mileages between the July 2025 failure (91,492 miles) and pass (91,493 miles) suggest the test was retaken immediately after repairs, which is unusual and could indicate rushed or incomplete work. The consistent low mileage also raises questions about whether the vehicle was stored in a protected environment or driven infrequently, both of which could accelerate corrosion without sufficient movement to prevent fluid stagnation. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front sub-frame and suspension arms, as the repeated corrosion advisories in 2024 and 2025 indicate structural weakening. The rear brake system, particularly the offside pipe and discs, shows persistent corrosion and wear, while the front brake discs and calipers have exhibited pitting and fluctuating performance. Tyres remain a concern, with near-legal tread depths and signs of cracking or perishing in multiple tests. The absence of recent servicing records means fluid levels (brakes, steering, suspension) should be verified, and the exhaust system should be checked for leaks or rust-through, especially given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The June 2026 pass does not absolve the need for these checks—it merely confirms the vehicle met minimum standards at that moment.