2016 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · DL66 UDH

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 28 January 2026 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the six-month gap since testing—now over half a year—is unusually long for a vehicle of this age and mileage. There are no recorded defects in any of the five tests spanning 2023 to 2026, suggesting the tester did not flag any major issues during those inspections. However, the absence of advisories or minor faults in the latest pass does not guarantee current condition, particularly for components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers, which degrade incrementally and may now require attention. The mileage progression shows consistent usage, averaging around 9,250 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The only notable anomaly is the duplicate test dates in May 2024, where the car failed once before passing the retest—though no defects were recorded, this implies either a procedural oversight or a minor, quickly rectified issue. There are no prolonged periods of inactivity or rapid mileage spikes, which would raise concerns about neglect or aggressive driving. Still, the lack of intermediate servicing records means critical fluids, such as brake fluid or differential oil, could be due for replacement. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which often fail silently and are not always checked during a standard MOT. The brakes, while never failed, should be examined for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been driven hard or exposed to wet conditions. Structural corrosion—common in this model—must be checked at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as hidden rust can compromise structural integrity. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive corrosion, as emissions tests are not exhaustive. The absence of advisories in recent tests does not preclude these areas from requiring attention.