2016 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · DP66 WSJ

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 31 January 2026—just six months ago—confirms it passed without defects, though the preceding test on 31 December 2025 was a failure with no recorded issues. This inconsistency suggests either a rare administrative oversight or a minor, non-critical fault that was quickly rectified. The pattern since 2023 shows no recurring mechanical failures, though the double test in December 2024 (both passed and failed at the same mileage) is unusual and warrants scrutiny. The vehicle’s roadworthiness is currently stable, but the irregularities in the latest tests imply either a lack of thorough pre-MOT checks or a brief, unresolved issue that did not escalate into a defect. The recorded mileage of 72,984 miles at the latest test suggests roughly 7,300 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or abrupt jumps in mileage between tests, though the 2024 tests—spaced just 14 days apart—are anomalous and may indicate a rushed or incomplete inspection. The most recent 12-month period shows steady usage without extreme wear patterns, but the lack of intermediate maintenance records means no insight into servicing intervals or component replacements. Given the absence of defects in the most recent pass, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should be the braking system, which failed twice in December 2024 despite no recorded issues. This suggests potential wear in calipers, binding mechanisms, or uneven brake pad thickness. The suspension—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—should also be examined for excessive play or corrosion, as these components often fail silently. Corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is another critical area, especially given the vehicle’s age; rust can compromise structural integrity without immediate warning. Finally, the double MOT tests in 2024 may hint at a recurring minor fault, so attention to exhaust emissions and catalytic converter efficiency is advised, as these are common failure points in Astra models.