2011 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · FD11 VAK

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend shows a shift from reactive repairs to stable operation. The most recent test in January 2026 at 148,364 miles identified a non-excessive oil leak, which mirrors a previous advisory from early 2023. While the car passed the 2024 and 2025 tests without recorded defects, the history reveals a period where mechanical components were neglected until they reached failure points. The mileage accumulation is remarkably consistent for a fifteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 10,000 miles per year. There was a significant gap of 10,500 miles between January 2023 and January 2024, followed by another 15,500 miles between early 2024 and 2025. This steady usage suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly, which is generally preferable for rubber components and brake systems than the degradation that often occurs during long periods of standing. A buyer must specifically inspect the rear sub-frame, as corrosion was noted in the 2023 test at 111,187 miles. Although it was not classed as seriously weakened then, structural rust on Insignia models can progress rapidly if left untreated. The 2024 failure involving a serious fluid leak on the nearside front shock absorber indicates a past failure, but the surrounding suspension bushes and mounts should be checked for signs of renewed wear. The braking system also requires scrutiny due to the 2024 failure for thin rear brake pads and worn discs, following a 2023 advisory for a binding nearside rear caliper. These issues suggest the previous owner only addressed brakes once they failed inspection rather than performing preventative maintenance. Given the recurring oil leak noted in 2023 and 2026, a physical inspection of the engine seals and sump housing is necessary to ensure the leak remains a minor seep rather than a developing pressure failure.