2016 Vauxhall Viva 1.0L Petrol · CE16 PXC

The Vauxhall Viva’s roadworthiness trend has deteriorated sharply in the past year, with the February 2026 MOT revealing three tyres at or near the legal limit—two of which are cracked—alongside a nail embedded in the offside front. This follows a clean record across the three preceding tests, suggesting the vehicle has either sat unused for extended periods or been driven without routine tyre checks. The presence of cracked tyres, particularly at the rear, raises concerns about age-related rubber degradation, while the nail indicates a failure to address even minor punctures promptly. The February 2025 and 2024 tests passed without defects, but the recurrence of tyre issues in February 2023—paired with a failed wiper clearance—hints at a pattern of deferred maintenance, particularly on consumables. The Viva’s mileage of 55,521 over ten years averages just 5,552 miles annually, far below the UK fleet average for its age. This low usage may explain why structural or mechanical failures haven’t yet emerged, but it also masks potential hidden wear. The gap between the February 2023 failure (43,927 miles) and the next test (46,936 miles) suggests the car may have been driven sparingly or stored for months afterward. Without further mileage data before 2023, it’s impossible to confirm whether the previous owner adhered to a consistent servicing schedule, but the absence of defects in the 2024 and 2025 tests implies no major structural or safety-critical issues developed during that period. For a buyer, the immediate priority is the tyre condition. All four should be replaced as a set, not just the three flagged, given the age and cracking risk. The nail in the offside front tyre demands an inspection for internal damage, and the wiper failure—though not repeated—should be verified, as poor visibility components often degrade further when neglected. Beyond consumables, check for signs of corrosion around wheel arches, suspension mounts, and exhaust joints, as low-mileage vehicles can still suffer from moisture-related deterioration if stored in damp conditions. The brakes were not mentioned in any test, but given the binding advisories in past records for similar models, a professional brake inspection is advisable to rule out seized calipers or worn discs. The suspension should also be assessed for worn bushes or coil springs, particularly if the car has been driven over uneven roads despite its low mileage.