2011 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · FD60 TMV

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 12 January 2023 resulted in a Pass, with a single advisory noting general under body corrosion at the rear. This follows a pattern of mostly clean Passes over the preceding years, but the history also contains two Failures within the last two test cycles, each related to fractured rear coil springs, alongside advisories on rear brake pad wear, trailer socket issues, and registration plate lamp function. The recurrence of coil spring failures on different sides of the rear suspension across consecutive test attempts suggests an ongoing structural wear issue rather than a one-off event, which warrants close attention. Although the vehicle is currently Pass-certified, the maintenance trend indicates that rear suspension components are approaching or exceeding their service life, and any prospective buyer should treat the rear axle as a priority area for inspection and budgeting for imminent repair work. The recorded mileage of 129,234 miles over approximately fifteen years equates to an annual average of around 8,600 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant unexplained gaps or sudden surges in the recorded mileage across the MOT history, indicating consistent use and a steady accumulation of wear across mechanical components such as the engine, transmission, clutch, and braking system. This level of usage is generally favourable, as it suggests the vehicle has not been left standing for long periods, which can otherwise lead to brake caliper seizure, fluid degradation, and corrosion issues. However, at this overall mileage, higher-wear items including suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, wheel bearings, and exhaust mounts are likely to have been replaced or be approaching replacement thresholds. Given the recorded history of fractured rear coil springs, the buyer should carry out a careful test drive listening for any clonking, knocking, or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when traversing uneven roads or speed humps. Visible signs of rear suspension distress include uneven tyre wear on the rear axle, vehicle sag at the rear when stationary, or uneven ride height between the nearside and offside. A physical inspection with the vehicle raised on a ramp would allow confirmation of remaining spring integrity and a check of the rear brake calipers for binding, as the recent advisory on nearside rear brake pad wear suggests the braking system has been working hard. Additionally, the under body corrosion advisory from 2023 should prompt a thorough examination of the rear chassis rails, floor pans, and structural mounting points for any progression of rust, particularly around suspension and exhaust mounting areas where road salt collects. Beyond the recorded defects, a fifteen year old vehicle at typical mileage requires general age-related due diligence. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected closely for perishing and cracking caused by UV exposure rather than just tread depth, as older tyres can fail suddenly even with legal tread. Brake discs should be checked for lipping and corrosion, and the operation of all electric functions including the registration plate lamps and trailer socket should be verified, given the previous advisories in these areas. Fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil should be confirmed as up to date by way of service book stamps or invoices, as these degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, the 12 volt battery should be load tested, as a fifteen year old original battery is highly unlikely to be present and even a recent replacement may be losing capacity, while the timing chain and cam belt service history should be confirmed to ensure the engine's major service intervals have been respected.