2017 Vauxhall Insignia 1.5L Petrol · CE67 PFF

The most recent MOT test for this Vauxhall Insignia was conducted on 2025-09-29 and resulted in a failure due to a major defect with the near-side obligatory rear-view mirror obstructing the driver’s rearward visibility. This failure contrasts sharply with the preceding MOT results, which were all passed without defects, indicating a sudden and unexplained issue with the mirror assembly. While the 2024 test showed no major failures, the presence of multiple advisories—particularly concerning brake component wear and tyre edge wear—suggests a pattern of gradual degradation in critical systems. The absence of repeated failures in prior years may imply that the mirror issue is either a one-off mechanical failure or a more complex installation problem, but the buyer should treat this as a critical concern requiring immediate rectification before the vehicle is put into service. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 69,770 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,752 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a nine-year-old car. Given the age and mileage, the mileage accumulation rate does not appear excessive, though the lack of service records or a service booklet means there is no direct evidence of maintenance adherence. The mileage distribution over the past nine years suggests a steady but not particularly aggressive driving regimen, which could imply lower wear rates on consumables like brake pads and tyres than might be expected from higher-mileage vehicles. However, the presence of advisories from previous MOTs—particularly regarding tyre edge wear and brake pad thinning—indicates that the vehicle has undergone some degree of wear over time, and further inspection will be necessary to assess the extent of this degradation. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concern is the failed rear-view mirror, which must be repaired or replaced to restore roadworthiness. The buyer should verify the cause of the failure—whether it is a physical obstruction, a damaged mounting bracket, or an improperly installed mirror—and ensure it is resolved before the vehicle is driven. During a test drive, the buyer should also listen for any unusual noises from the brake system, particularly when applying the brakes, as the advisories from 2024 indicate that the front and rear brake pads are wearing thin. Symptoms to watch for include a reduced braking feel, a grinding or squeaking sound from the brakes during deceleration, or uneven brake pad wear that could suggest misalignment or binding calipers. Additionally, the buyer should inspect the brake discs for pitting, warping, or excessive glazing, which could indicate prolonged use or overheating. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the sidewall condition for signs of cracking, perishing, or dry rot, which can become critical with age. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories from 2021 regarding tyre edge wear, the buyer should check for uneven tread wear patterns, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues. The rear tyres, in particular, should be examined for any signs of nail damage or excessive wear, as these can compromise tyre integrity and safety. The battery should also be tested for signs of weakness or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for prolonged periods, as standing corrosion can lead to binding terminals or a dead battery. Lastly, the buyer should consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which may have degraded over time even without high mileage. A check of the service history or a professional inspection would be advisable to confirm that time-based maintenance has been attended to, particularly if the vehicle has not been serviced in line with manufacturer recommendations.