2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · CT09 FDY

The most recent MOT, dated 28 November 2025, was passed but flagged three front‑tyre wear advisories and a rear‑tyre advisory for tread close to the legal limit and edge‑wear. Apart from that, the test recorded no failures. Over the preceding six years the vehicle has moved from a serious 2022 failure that included a fractured off‑side rear coil spring, parking‑brake inefficiency and a severely deteriorated CV boot, to a series of clean passes with only minor tyre wear warnings and a single lighting fault in late 2024. This trajectory indicates that the major mechanical deficiencies identified in 2022 have been addressed and the car’s condition has been stabilising, with only routine wear items now appearing. At 165 087 miles the Astra averages roughly 9 700 miles per year, which is typical for a 2009 model. The mileage record shows no long periods of inactivity that would suggest severe calendar ageing, nor any abrupt spikes that would point to high‑stress usage. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be proportionate to age and mileage, but the recorded tyre edge wear suggests the vehicle may have been run with mis‑aligned wheels or worn suspension bushes at some stage, a condition that can accelerate tread degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear off‑side coil spring that was recorded as fractured in the 2022 failure. Verify that the spring has been replaced and that the associated shock absorber and mounting points are sound; any clunk or excessive bounce on the rear‑right wheel during a test drive would indicate lingering suspension issues. The parking‑brake system, which previously failed efficiency and side‑specific actuation tests, must be inspected for proper adjustment, cable condition and caliper or drum wear – a soft or uneven pull when applying the handbrake, or a failure to hold the vehicle on a slight incline, would be warning signs. The constant‑velocity (CV) boot on the near‑side outer drive shaft was noted as severely deteriorated; ensure the boot has been replaced and that there is no grease leakage or clicking from the joint when accelerating or decelerating. Finally, confirm that the off‑side front position lamp now functions, as a missing lamp can be a simple electrical fault but also a symptom of corroded wiring or a failing bulb socket. Beyond the recorded defects, the car’s age warrants a thorough visual and tactile inspection of time‑sensitive items. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear patterns that may have developed since the last MOT, especially given the repeated edge‑wear advisories. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the 12‑volt battery’s cranking performance, as a 17‑year‑old unit is likely approaching the end of its service life. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and verify that the pads have sufficient thickness – the vehicle’s moderate mileage suggests they may be nearing the replacement point. Finally, confirm that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended intervals, looking for any signs of fluid contamination or leaks that can arise from prolonged standing or delayed servicing. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection covering these points will give a clear picture of the Astra’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance costs.