2017 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · DN67 FAM

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the Vauxhall Astra was conducted on 2025-09-25, resulting in a passing outcome with two advisories. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2020, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly the rear brake pads nearing low status and the near-side front tyre wear approaching the legal limit—suggests a pattern of wear that warrants closer attention. The failure in 2020, which included a dangerous major defect with the near-side front road wheel being badly distorted and a dangerous failure involving the near-side rear brake pads being incorrectly mounted and falling apart, indicates a critical issue that was either resolved or mitigated during subsequent servicing. This history implies that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness through recent tests, underlying wear and potential structural or component fatigue remain a concern, especially given the age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 85,720 miles for a vehicle aged approximately nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,524 miles per year, which is within the typical range for this model’s age bracket. However, the significant gap between the 2020 failure and the 2025 MOT—nearly five years—could imply either a period of reduced usage or a delay in addressing critical issues, potentially leading to further deterioration in components such as the suspension, brakes, or wheel alignment. The lack of a recent, high-mileage spike does not necessarily indicate poor maintenance, but it does mean that wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may have been less aggressive over time. Still, the wear advisories suggest that components are approaching their operational limits, necessitating proactive checks to prevent failure before the next MOT test. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent inspection should focus on the rear brake system, as the advisories indicate that the pads are critically low and may require replacement soon. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or vibrating feel, or signs of pulsation, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, visually inspect the rear brake pads for glazing or excessive thickness loss, and check for any fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder or calipers. The near-side front tyre wear approaching the legal limit also demands immediate attention, as running a tyre to this extent risks compromising grip and increasing the risk of a blowout. Inspect the tyre for any cracks or bulges in the sidewall, and ensure the tread depth is maintained at least 1.6mm across the central 75% of the tread. A thorough visual and functional check of the front wheel alignment and suspension components—particularly the near-side front wheel distortion from the 2020 failure—should also be performed, as this could affect handling and tyre wear patterns. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle, paying particular attention to signs of standing corrosion, especially around the rear wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake components. Check for any fluid leaks from the engine bay, transmission, or cooling system, as these could indicate failing seals or gaskets that may require replacement. Given the vehicle’s age, a practical check of the 12V battery health is advisable, as standing vehicles can suffer from battery degradation or parasitic drain. Additionally, verify that the service book has been updated for time-based fluid servicing, such as the oil change, brake fluid flush, and coolant replacement, which are critical for maintaining engine and brake system longevity. If the vehicle has been in use, inspect the tyres for signs of perishing from age, such as cracks or delamination in the sidewall, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements. Finally, a professional inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended to assess the structural integrity of the suspension, exhaust system, and drivetrain components, as the history of critical failures suggests that some areas may require deeper investigation.