2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · DN66 NCC

The most recent MOT on 9 January 2025 was recorded as a pass, although a separate entry on the same day noted a failure of the nearside stop lamp. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in 2020 to a series of increasingly serious defects in 2022, 2024 and early 2025, including fractured rear coil spring, front brake pads below the minimum thickness, leaking front shock absorbers and multiple suspension ball‑joint failures. Although the latest test was cleared, the pattern shows a clear deterioration in condition rather than an improving maintenance trend, and the recent pass likely reflects remedial work on the lighting fault rather than a resolution of the underlying mechanical issues. At 77,003 mi the van averages roughly 7,700 mi per annum, which is typical for a ten‑year‑old light commercial vehicle. The mileage record does not reveal any periods of unusually high use that would accelerate wear, but the relatively modest annual distance also suggests the vehicle may have spent extended periods idle. Prolonged standing can promote corrosion of brake components, perishing of tyre sidewalls and degradation of seals in the suspension and steering, all of which must be checked despite the moderate mileage. When you inspect the van, give particular attention to the rear suspension and front shock absorbers. The off‑side rear coil spring that fractured in 2024 should be examined for any signs of fatigue or cracking in the remaining spring and mounting points; any clunk or uneven ride height on the rear axle would indicate that the issue has not been fully resolved. The front shock absorbers were noted with light oil misting, a condition that can progress to loss of damping and excessive body roll, so feel for any excessive bounce or uneven damping during a short drive and inspect the shock bodies for oil stains or leaking seals. The ball‑joint failures recorded on both front lower arms and the front track rod end are likely to produce steering wander, knocking noises when turning, and uneven tyre wear, so check for play in the steering wheel and for any abnormal noises when the wheels are rocked at the corners. The brake system also warrants close scrutiny: the front pads were dangerously thin in early 2024 and the rear pads were flagged as thin in 2022. Verify that the pads have been replaced, inspect the disc surfaces for scoring or rust, and test the brakes for consistent pedal feel, pedal travel and any pulsation that could indicate warped discs or uneven pad wear. Beyond the major systems, confirm that all exterior lamps operate correctly, especially the stop lamps that caused the most recent failure, and ensure the windscreen washer delivers an adequate spray. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; even with only 77 000 mi the tyres may be approaching the end of their service life due to age, so look for cracking, dry rot or bulges and verify that the tread is well above the legal limit on all four wheels. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, as a decade‑old battery can lose capacity even with modest use. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and ask for any receipts relating to the replacement of the rear coil spring, shock absorbers, brake pads or suspension ball joints, as documented repairs will give you confidence that the most critical wear items have been addressed.