2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.4L Petrol · BL16 OGD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-19 resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that suggest ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of recurring tyre and shock absorber advisories, with the tyres and front/rear shock absorbers consistently exhibiting signs of light misting or minor damage, particularly in the rear. While the 2024 and 2023 MOTs were clean, the 2025 failures and repeated advisories indicate that the vehicle has not been fully addressed, leaving the owner with a maintenance backlog that could escalate if not rectified promptly. The front brake discs also show wear, with pitting and scoring noted in prior tests, which, while not yet failing the MOT, warrants closer attention to prevent further deterioration or potential brake performance issues. The recorded mileage of 100,227 miles for a 2016 Vauxhall Adam reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,023 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. However, the consistent advisories on tyres and shock absorbers may suggest either prolonged periods of underuse or suboptimal driving conditions that have accelerated wear. Tyres, in particular, are prone to cracking or perishing due to age and exposure to environmental factors, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without rotation or rotation checks. The rear tyres’ repeated advisories could also hint at uneven loading or suspension issues, which might be exacerbated by the light misting of oil in the shock absorbers, indicating potential internal damage or seal failure. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, shock absorbers, and brake system. Begin by visually examining the tyres for signs of cracking, perishing, or uneven wear patterns, particularly focusing on the sidewalls and tread depth. The light misting of oil in the front and rear shock absorbers suggests that these components may be failing internally, leading to reduced damping efficiency and potential suspension clunks or a loss of ride quality during acceleration or braking. Listen for any unusual noises from the shocks, such as a hollow or metallic clunking when the vehicle is driven over bumps, which would confirm their compromised condition. If the shocks are confirmed to be worn, replacement is advisable before they fail completely, which could lead to excessive suspension travel, poor handling, or even structural damage to the vehicle. Additionally, check the brake discs for signs of pitting, scoring, or corrosion, as well as the condition of the brake pads and calipers. Binding calipers or corroded discs can cause uneven braking performance or a shuddering sensation when braking, especially at higher speeds. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or a low fluid level, as this could indicate a leak or failing master cylinder. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older batteries are more susceptible to failure, particularly if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Finally, verify that the service history includes scheduled fluid top-ups, particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 5 years, depending on the fluid type. If the vehicle has been driven at a steady, moderate pace, the next MOT is due in 2027, but a thorough pre-purchase inspection should be conducted to address the outstanding advisories and ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy and safe.