2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · DP65 LDY

The most recent MOT, dated 28 January 2022 at 154,408 miles, shows a pass, but only after a failure on the same day at 154,406 miles. That failure flagged a fractured offside rear coil spring, a serious suspension defect that directly compromises structural integrity and ride control. The car passed a retest two days later with no further advisories, suggesting the spring was replaced promptly. However, the record ends there, over four years ago. No subsequent tests exist, meaning the current roadworthiness status is unknown. The maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventive: a critical failure was corrected, but the absence of later records leaves no evidence of ongoing care. The mileage pattern raises further concern. Between 2019 and 2021, the van accumulated roughly 46,400 miles, averaging over 23,000 miles per year. From 2021 to 2022, it added 26,897 miles in just under twelve months. At the point of its last test in January 2022, the recorded mileage of 154,408 was already high for a six-year-old commercial vehicle. Since then, the mileage has remained static in the records, which is unusual. Either the van has been standing unused for over four years, risking deterioration of tyres, brakes, and rubber components from age and inactivity, or the mileage figure is no longer being updated due to a lapsed or absent MOT. Both scenarios demand physical verification. A buyer should focus on the structural and suspension components that have already shown failure. The fractured coil spring in 2022 indicates the rear suspension has endured significant stress. Inspect both rear coil springs for cracks, sag, or corrosion, and check the rear shock absorbers for oil leaks and mounting bush wear. The nearside rear wheel bearing had slight play at the last test; listen for rumbling or roughness when spinning that wheel, and check for play by rocking it vertically. Both obligatory mirrors were flagged as slightly damaged in 2022 and may have deteriorated further. Examine them for cracks or loose mounting. Given the van's high mileage and commercial use, inspect the front brake pads and discs for uneven wear, and check the sill panels near the front door, which were flagged as damaged in 2020. Any unrepaired sill damage could indicate hidden corrosion. Finally, verify the current mileage against the last recorded figure and assess whether the vehicle has been stored or driven since 2022, as prolonged standing causes tyre flat-spotting, brake surface corrosion, and fuel system issues.