2012 Vauxhall Corsa 1.4L Petrol · FD12 FDA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the recent MOT history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. While it passed the test on 21 April 2026 at 59,080 miles, the initial failure just days prior highlights a significant accumulation of mechanical and safety defects. The transition from a major failure involving suspension, braking, and structural tyre issues to a pass suggests that the owner only addressed faults when strictly necessary to meet legal requirements. The mileage profile is notably low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,220 miles per year. Between April 2023 at 49,927 miles and the April 2026 test at 59,080 miles, the car covered under 9,200 miles. While this low usage typically reduces wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often leads to the degradation of rubber components and fluids, which is evidenced by the recurring issues with perishing tyres, coolant, and oil leaks across the three-year period. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The April 2026 failure flagged a fractured nearside front coil spring, corroded offside front spring, and a damaged nearside shock absorber. Furthermore, the tester recorded a severe 48% imbalance across the rear axle and a lagging nearside rear brake, indicating potentially seized calipers or worn cylinders requiring attention. The buyer should also monitor the front lower oil leak and the exhaust gas leak between the middle and back boxes noted in the latest advisory. The recurring mention of tyre cracking and perishing from 2023 through 2026 suggests the vehicle likely sits for long periods, causing the rubber compounds to dry out. Given the age of the car and the low mileage, an inspection of the MacPherson strut bushes and structural integrity is essential to ensure that corrosion has not progressed beyond the minor levels noted by the tester.