2002 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6L Petrol · CX02 RBY

Chronic corrosion and recurring fluid leaks define the mechanical history of this vehicle. A persistent pattern of oil leaks and exhaust system decay is evident across multiple years, culminating in a pass on 7 November 2022 that still noted an oil leak and a severely deteriorated offside front outer drive shaft CV boot. The record indicates a trend of gradual degradation rather than comprehensive rectification of these recurring advisories. The recorded mileage of 118,542 miles is low for a twenty-four-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,939 miles per year. However, there is a significant gap in the MOT history from November 2022 to the present date in September 2026. This combination of low annual usage and a multi-year period off the road increases the likelihood of perished rubber components, seized brake calipers, and accelerated corrosion of exposed metal surfaces. Inspection should focus heavily on the chassis and drivetrain. The history of corroded rear coil springs and brake hose ferules suggests a vulnerability to rust that requires a thorough underside check. During a test drive, listen for clicking or popping sounds from the front wheels during tight turns, which would indicate that the previously flagged CV boot failure has led to joint wear. Any knocks or instability over uneven surfaces may point to the ongoing degradation of the rear suspension springs. The braking system and exhaust require close scrutiny due to repeated advisories for pitted and worn front brake discs and a corroded rear silencer. Feel for any judder through the brake pedal during deceleration, which often accompanies pitted discs. Additionally, check for an audible hiss or excessive noise from the exhaust system, specifically at the joints, and inspect the engine bay for active oil leaks that have been flagged consistently since 2018.