2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · DA09 KJO

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 27 March 2026—just four months ago—confirmed it passed without any defects, though it had previously failed on 25 March 2026 at 108,374 miles, a mere two days earlier. This abrupt reversal suggests the vehicle was either driven to a different test centre or underwent a rapid repair cycle between tests, as the mileage change of 131 miles is unusually small for a full retest. The pattern of consecutive passes and fails in 2025 and 2024 similarly shows no persistent faults, but the lack of recorded defects does not preclude underlying issues. The vehicle’s roadworthiness remains technically compliant at this moment, but the irregular test cycle warrants scrutiny of whether critical components were overlooked or hastily addressed. The recorded mileage of 108,505 miles over 17 years aligns with an average of around 6,383 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious gaps in usage, nor does the data suggest prolonged periods of disuse or aggressive driving. The most notable anomaly is the identical mileage on the 2025 fail and pass tests, indicating either a test centre error or a vehicle that was not driven between those dates. The consistency in mileage increments between tests—roughly 14,000 miles annually—implies regular but not excessive use, though this does not guarantee the absence of deferred maintenance. Given the absence of defects in the MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to wear at this mileage: the suspension bushes and coil springs, particularly in the rear, where binding or uneven wear is common in this model. The brakes, though not flagged, should be checked for uneven disc thickness or warping, especially if the vehicle exhibits pulling or reduced stopping power. Corrosion is another critical area—examine the wheel arches, sills, and subframe mounts for structural compromise, as rust can compromise safety-critical elements. The exhaust system should also be inspected for leaks or excessive sagging, as emissions systems in this model are known to degrade over time. The lack of recorded advisories does not rule out hidden issues, so a thorough visual and functional assessment is essential.