2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · CB08 CAM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 16 December 2025, was passed but returned a series of advisories covering the rear‑exhaust mounting, off‑side rear coil spring corrosion, a minor oil leak, front brake disc surface condition and a slight binding of the off‑side front service brake. Over the last four years the vehicle has alternated between pass and fail results, with recurring major failures for the windscreen washer, horn, engine MIL and headlamp aim, and repeated advisories for the same rear‑exhaust and suspension components. This pattern indicates that while the car has been kept road‑legal, a number of underlying issues have not been fully rectified, suggesting a maintenance regime that is reactive rather than proactive and a trend that is, at best, stagnant. At 123,191 mi for a 2009 model the annual average mileage works out at roughly 7,250 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would point to severe wear spikes, nor are there long gaps that might imply prolonged storage. The mileage level is consistent with moderate daily driving and occasional longer trips, meaning that wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension bushings will be typical for a vehicle of this age rather than excessive. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear‑exhaust mounting and hanger, which have been flagged as insecure or defective on every MOT since 2022. On a test drive listen for rattles or clunks from the rear when accelerating, decelerating or over bumps, and inspect the mounting brackets for cracked welds, rusted bolts or missing bushings. The off‑side rear coil spring corrosion noted repeatedly suggests the spring may be weakened; a visual inspection should reveal surface rust or pitting, and a bounce test of the rear suspension can reveal reduced spring stiffness or uneven rebound. The oil leak, although classed as non‑excessive, should be traced – look for fresh oil around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or rear main seal, and verify that the leak does not compromise the engine oil level or cause splashing onto hot components. Front brake discs have been reported as worn, pitted and scored, with one side showing slight binding; examine disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum, check for surface scoring, and during a drive feel for any pulsation, squeal or increased pedal effort, especially when applying the off‑side front brake. The missing anti‑slip provision on the brake pedal is a safety concern and must be fitted before the vehicle can be considered fully road‑worthy. Beyond the recurring faults, age‑related checks are essential. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Verify the 12 V battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of sulphation or terminal corrosion, as a vehicle of this vintage is likely to have spent periods idle. Confirm that all fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed within the recommended service intervals, noting that brake fluid degrades on a calendar basis and should be flushed at least every two years. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and ensure that any outstanding recall work, particularly for the headlamp aim and horn, has been completed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Astra’s current mechanical condition and the likely cost of bringing it to a fully reliable state.