2017 Vauxhall Insignia 1.6L Diesel · DN67 FLE

The most recent MOT test on the Vauxhall Insignia, conducted on 20th August 2026, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding years. While the vehicle’s MOT history is not entirely flawless, the trend over the last two years has shown significant improvement, with only minor advisories related to brake disc wear and a non-functional dipped beam headlamp—both issues that are easily rectifiable and unlikely to compromise roadworthiness if addressed promptly. The absence of dangerous failures or structural issues in the latest test suggests that the vehicle has been maintained with greater diligence recently, though the owner should remain vigilant about the recurring brake and suspension advisories to prevent escalation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 79,247 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,805 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a nine-year-old car. This level of mileage alone does not inherently indicate excessive wear, but the combination of relatively high mileage with several MOT failures—particularly those involving coil springs and brake components—demonstrates that the vehicle has undergone significant mechanical stress. The presence of coil spring fractures in two separate MOTs (2023 and 2025) suggests that the suspension system has been compromised, likely due to prolonged exposure to road imperfections, improper load distribution, or substandard maintenance. Additionally, the brake advisories and pad wear indicate that the braking system has been subjected to heavy or irregular use, which can accelerate component degradation. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, as these have been the primary failure points in the vehicle’s history. Upon inspection, focus on the rear coil springs, which appear to have failed in two locations—this could lead to uneven ride quality, excessive body roll, or even structural instability if left unaddressed. Listen for clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension during a test drive, particularly when navigating bumps or cornering sharply, as these may indicate loose or damaged suspension components. The brake discs and pads also require close attention; check for uneven wear patterns, scoring, or excessive heat discolouration, which could suggest brake shudder, hydraulic issues, or binding calipers. Test the brakes by applying firm pressure while driving at a moderate speed and listen for unusual grinding, squeaking, or a spongy pedal feel, which may indicate worn pads, warped discs, or a failing brake master cylinder. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness by examining the tyres for signs of excessive wear, particularly on the inner edges, which were noted as legal but worn in 2025. Inspect the tread depth and sidewall condition for cracks or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and compromise safety, especially given the vehicle’s age. Check for any fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the front suspension, brakes, and exhaust system, as these could indicate failing seals or components. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged standing, inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V system is functioning correctly by testing lights, windows, and power accessories. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced in a significant timeframe, consider scheduling a comprehensive mechanical inspection to verify fluid levels (brake, coolant, transmission, and power steering), check for any hidden corrosion in the chassis or undercarriage, and confirm that the service book has been updated with the necessary maintenance records. If the buyer is concerned about the coil spring failures, they may also wish to commission a structural integrity assessment to ensure the vehicle’s safety and handling are not compromised by hidden damage.