2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · DC65 CSY

The most recent MOT on 22 April 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. However, the preceding three‑year history shows a pattern of serious failures – notably leaking front shock absorbers, excessive play in the nearside front track‑rod end, fractured rear coil springs and a broken rear lower coil spring – interspersed with advisory items such as tyre wear and low coolant. The fact that the vehicle cleared the latest test suggests that the major faults identified in 2025 and 2024 have been rectified, but the recurrence of similar suspension and tyre advisories points to a maintenance trend that is improving only after substantial intervention rather than steadily stable. At 87 032 miles for a 2016 model, the average annual mileage works out to roughly 8 700 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage band of 7‑10 000 miles annually. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would imply long periods of storage, yet the relatively modest total distance for a ten‑year‑old van means that many components may have experienced calendar ageing rather than pure wear. The low‑to‑moderate mileage reduces the likelihood of high‑stress wear on the drivetrain, but age‑related degradation of rubber, seals and corrosion‑prone parts remains a concern. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and rear spring assemblies that have previously failed. Inspect the nearside front shock absorber for any oil seepage around the rod and listen for a soft, spongy feel or excessive bounce during a short drive; a persistent leak often heralds bearing wear or seal failure. The nearside front track‑rod end ball joint should be checked for play by moving the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions – any clunk or looseness indicates that the joint may need replacement. The rear coil springs, especially the fractured lower spring noted in 2023, should be examined for cracks or broken coils; a broken spring will produce a noticeable sag, uneven rear ride height and a thumping noise over bumps. Also verify that the anti‑roll bar ball joints are free of excessive wear, as worn joints can cause steering wander and a loose feel in cornering. Tyre condition is another recurring advisory – both front outer tyres were flagged as close to the legal tread limit and the nearside rear tyre showed edge wear – so the buyer should measure tread depth across the width, look for sidewall cracking, and ensure the tyres are of the correct size and pressure. Any vibration or shudder under braking may indicate that the brake discs have become corroded from infrequent use, so a visual inspection of disc surface and a test‑drive brake feel check are advisable. Beyond the specific defects, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Check the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, as batteries over ten years often require replacement even with low mileage. Examine all coolant hoses, the radiator and the header tank for signs of leaks, corrosion or old coolant residue, especially given the 2024 emissions failure caused by an empty header tank and a wet radiator. Inspect the exhaust system for rust or cracked joints, and ensure the brake pads and discs have sufficient thickness, as brake components can seize or corrode when a vehicle sits for extended periods. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service records, and that any previous suspension repairs are documented with appropriate part numbers and torque specifications. Addressing these points will give the buyer a clear picture of the van’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance budget.