2010 Vauxhall Zafira 1.8L Petrol · DY60 SWZ

The maintenance trend for this Zafira shows a gradual deterioration in front suspension condition, culminating in the most recent July 2025 test at 82,232 miles. The tester flagged a worn offside front suspension arm pin or bush on both the initial failure and the same-day retest, indicating a persistent mechanical issue rather than a sudden failure. A defective offside registration plate lamp has appeared consistently since April 2023, pointing to a neglected electrical minor fault. The July 2025 failure also identified a severe cut to the nearside front tyre reaching the ply, a critical defect that required immediate replacement before the certificate was issued. Overall, the vehicle passes its current test but displays worsening front suspension wear and a pattern of ignoring minor defects. Covering roughly 5,140 miles annually, this Zafira has seen exceptionally light use for a 2010 model. The mileage accumulation slowed noticeably between April 2023 and July 2025, adding just 9,252 miles over 27 months. This extended period of low utilisation raises the prospect of prolonged standing, which can cause flat-spotted tyres, seized components, and moisture-related corrosion in the exhaust and braking systems. The gap between the January 2022 test at 67,527 miles and the April 2023 test at 72,980 miles shows a steady 5,453 miles covered in 15 months, but the subsequent drop in annual mileage suggests the vehicle spent significant time stationary. A physical inspection must prioritise the front suspension components, given the recurring advisories for worn suspension arm pins and bushes. Check the offside front lower arm rear bush for play and deterioration, and verify if the nearside front bush flagged in 2024 has degraded further. Inspect the inner edges of the front tyres for uneven wear, which often accompanies worn suspension bushes or misaligned tracking. The minor exhaust leak flagged in January 2022 requires scrutiny; examine the exhaust system for significant corrosion or holes, particularly around welds and the flexi-pipe, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from condensation-induced internal rust. Evaluate the brake discs and calipers for corrosion and binding, as a car covering such short distances is prone to surface rust and sticking calipers.