2016 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · DX66 OFW

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 January 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory concerning slight damage and side‑wall cracking on the nearside rear tyre. Over the last seven years the vehicle has moved from a clean record in 2019 to a serious failure in late 2022, then to a series of passes with only minor advisories from 2023 onward. This pattern indicates that the major safety issues identified in the 2022 failure have been addressed, but a number of wear‑related items remain on the watch‑list, suggesting a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires close attention. At 107,760 mi the Astra averages roughly 10,800 mi per year, which is within the normal UK usage envelope for a ten‑year‑old car. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply long periods of inactivity, so the wear observed is consistent with steady, moderate use rather than excessive short‑term mileage spikes. The mileage level does, however, place the vehicle in the regime where suspension bushings, brake discs and pads, and tyre tread are approaching the point where replacement is often required. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front suspension and steering components. The nearside front track‑rod end ball joint, previously flagged for excessive play and later for slight play, should be inspected for any clunk or looseness when the wheel is turned at low speed; any noticeable wandering or a knocking sensation under cornering would indicate that the joint may be nearing the end of its service life and could need replacement. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, also noted for slight play, should be checked for similar symptoms. Verify that the offside front wheel fixing, which was recorded as missing in the 2022 failure, is now correctly fitted and torqued, and look for any vibration or wobble at higher speeds that could betray a loose or distorted wheel hub. The tyre condition warrants immediate scrutiny: the nearside rear tyre shows side‑wall cracking, the front tyres were previously warned as being close to the legal tread limit, and the offside rear brake pads were noted as thin. Examine all tyres for tread depth above 1.6 mm, uniform wear patterns, and any bulges or cracks; listen for a shudder when applying the brakes, which would suggest the rear pads are due for replacement or that the discs may be corroded. Beyond the specific items flagged in the MOT history, a ten‑year‑old vehicle with just over 100 000 mi should be examined for age‑related wear. Inspect the battery terminals and perform a load test to confirm adequate cranking power, as prolonged standing can lead to sulphation. Check the condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid; fluids over three years old can degrade and lose effectiveness, so a full service may be prudent. Look for any signs of corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, especially if the car has spent time idle. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any recall work has been completed, as these records will give confidence that the Astra has been kept in a mechanically sound state.