2015 Vauxhall Astra 2.0L Diesel · BU15 OBC

The most recent MOT on 21 April 2026 was passed, but it carried three advisories – a TPMS warning lamp, a front oil leak that is not excessive but is obscured by the under‑tray, and front and rear brake discs that are worn, pitted or scored though not yet structurally compromised. Earlier tests show a generally stable pattern: the 2025 MOT was clean, 2024 flagged a rear nail, 2021 noted corrosion on the off‑side front disc, and 2020 highlighted tyre tread at the legal limit. The recurrence of brake‑disc wear and the persistent oil‑leak advisory suggest a modest deterioration in the braking system and a minor engine‑bay leak that has not progressed to a failure, but the overall trend is one of gradual wear rather than sudden decline. At 114,597 mi the Astra has averaged roughly 10,400 mi per year over its eleven‑year life, which sits squarely within normal UK usage. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the recorded history, implying the car has not spent extended periods idle that could exacerbate corrosion or fluid breakdown. Nevertheless, a vehicle with just over a hundred‑thousand miles will have experienced normal wear on consumables such as tyres, brake discs, pads, suspension bushings and engine oil, and the mileage aligns with the advisories seen on recent MOTs. A prospective buyer should give the front oil leak a thorough visual inspection, looking for any fresh oil on the underside of the engine block, around the valve cover gasket and the front main seal. While the MOT examiner deemed the leak non‑excessive, any steady drip can lead to oil starvation of the timing chain tensioner or cause the under‑tray to become slippery, increasing the risk of debris ingress. On a test drive, listen for a faint oil‑splash sound at idle and check for oil spots on the garage floor after a short drive. The brake discs, both front and rear, are already pitted; expect some pedal pulsation or a faint grinding when the pads engage, especially under heavy braking. Replacement of the front discs is advisable within the next 5 000‑10 000 mi, with the rear discs likely needing attention soon after. Verify that the brake pads have sufficient thickness and that the calipers move freely without binding; any shudder or uneven brake feel should be investigated. Tyre condition warrants immediate attention – a nail was recorded in the off‑side rear tyre in 2024, and the 2020 advisory warned of tread at the legal limit on all four wheels. Even if the current tyres appear sound, inspect the sidewalls for cracks, dry‑rot or bulges that can develop with age, and confirm that the TPMS warning lamp is not indicating a faulty sensor rather than low pressure. Given the vehicle’s age, check the 12 V battery for cranking performance and inspect for any electrolyte leakage, as batteries over ten years often require replacement. Finally, examine the suspension bushings, ball joints and engine mounts for any looseness or knocking, and ensure that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed in accordance with the service schedule, as time‑based degradation can occur even on low‑mileage cars. A full service that addresses the oil leak, brake disc replacement and tyre renewal will place the Astra on a solid road‑worthy footing for the next few years.