2013 Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0L Diesel · DM02 MCF

The Vauxhall Vivaro passed its most recent MOT test on 17 September 2025, although it carries an advisory noting that the security of the offside outer CV boot should be checked. Looking at the broader pattern across the last four years, the maintenance trend is best described as worsening rather than stable. The vehicle has failed its MOT on three of the four most recent attempts (2022, 2023, and 2025), and while the 2024 and 2025 passes followed repairs, the same issues keep reappearing in different forms. Most concerning is the repeated failure of the front lower suspension arm ball joints on both nearside and offside, the recurring problems with stop lamps and front position lamps, and the persistent advisory regarding the offside outer CV boot. A single isolated failure is unremarkable, but a pattern of repeat advisories on the same components suggests that repairs are being carried out as short-term fixes rather than addressing underlying wear. With a recorded mileage of 170,439 miles over approximately 13 years, this Vivaro has averaged around 13,111 miles per year, which is notably high for a vehicle of this age. This level of annual use points to genuinely commercial or high-mileage private operation, and the MOT records do not reveal any significant gaps in testing, implying consistent use rather than long periods of standing. Mechanically, such sustained mileage accelerates wear on suspension components, driveline items, the clutch and gearbox, the turbocharger (if applicable), and general engine internals. The high mileage therefore compounds the concerns raised by the MOT history, as the wear that has already produced repeated ball joint and CV boot advisories is likely to continue advancing rapidly. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension. The lower arm ball joints have failed or been flagged three times in four years, and even after replacement they should be inspected for play, torn dust covers, and knocking or clonking noises when traversing speed bumps or potholes. The offside outer CV boot advisory has been carried forward for at least two tests, indicating it has not been properly addressed; an unaddressed split boot allows grease to escape and contamination to enter, leading to rapid joint failure, so listen for clicking or knocking on full lock during a test drive and inspect the boot itself for splits, grease loss, or aftermarket tape repairs. The track rod end failure in 2024 is also significant, as excessive play here causes vague steering, uneven front tyre wear (particularly inner shoulder wear), and potential MOT failure; check for any wandering or looseness in the steering, and inspect the inner and outer edges of the front tyres for uneven wear patterns. Given the mileage, the power steering system, rack, and tie bars should be examined for seepage and play. Beyond the recorded defects, a high-mileage commercial-derived van of this age requires careful attention to areas that MOT testing does not fully cover. The timing chain or belt service interval must be verified, along with evidence of recent cambelt replacement if applicable, and the auxiliary belt and tensioner should be checked for cracking. Brake discs and pads are likely on their second or third set by now, and although they passed at the last test, they should be measured for remaining thickness and inspected for lipping, scoring, or binding calipers, particularly after any period of infrequent use. Inspect the underside thoroughly for corrosion, paying close attention to the rear axle, subframes, and suspension mounting points, as Vivaros of this generation are known for structural surface corrosion. Check for fluid leaks from the engine, power steering, and transmission, confirm the age and condition of the 12V battery (a common failure point on high-mileage vehicles), and ensure all consumables such as coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil have been serviced in line with calendar intervals. With the documented MOT issues and the high annual mileage, any purchase should be accompanied by an independent pre-purchase inspection and a realistic budget for forthcoming suspension, steering, and driveline maintenance.