2011 Vauxhall Agila 1.2L Petrol · FD61 DXF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 16 January 2026, was passed but recorded two advisories – a service‑light reminder and a split rear wiper blade. This follows a failed test only four days earlier that highlighted several major safety items, notably illegible registration plates, an insecure front battery, ineffective windscreen wipers, and excessive wear on the front anti‑roll bar ball joint and the nearside lower suspension arm ball joint. Earlier in the record the 2024 tests also produced a failure for front tyre tread depth and a range of minor faults, while 2021 showed a serious brake‑lever travel deficiency. The pattern suggests that the vehicle has required intermittent corrective work rather than following a consistently proactive maintenance regime; recent repairs have restored it to a passable state, but the recurrence of suspension and brake‑related issues points to a maintenance trend that is still somewhat erratic. At 86 311 mi the Agila averages roughly 5 700 mi per year, well below the typical usage for a fifteen‑year‑old family hatchback. Such low annual mileage often indicates long periods of inactivity, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in terms of rubber perishing, battery electrolyte stratification and corrosion of metal components. Conversely, the mileage figure does not rule out localized high‑stress use, for example short‑haul or urban stop‑start driving, which can accelerate wear on brakes, tyres and suspension joints. The combination of modest mileage and a history of major component failures means the buyer should treat the low‑usage claim with caution and verify that the vehicle has not simply been idle for extended stretches. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the front suspension and anti‑roll bar. Check for any play or clunking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed and when the wheels are rocked over the bump stops; excessive movement may indicate the ball joints flagged in the 2026 failure are still approaching the end of their service life. Examine the front tyre tread across the width and sidewalls – the 2024 failure for tread below 1.6 mm suggests the current set may be near the legal limit, so verify that the depth is comfortably above the minimum and look for uneven wear that could betray mis‑alignment or worn steering components. The rear tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking, dry rot or any signs of perishing, especially given the advisory about rear tyre damage in 2024; any hardening or loss of flexibility can lead to sudden failure on wet surfaces. The brake system warrants a thorough test drive: feel for a firm, progressive pedal and listen for any shudder or pulsation that could indicate the pitted front discs noted in 2021 are deteriorating further. Verify that the hand‑brake holds the vehicle securely without excessive pull, and watch for any pull to one side under braking, an issue flagged in 2024. Confirm that the front battery is securely mounted and that the terminals are clean, as the 2026 failure cited a potentially loose battery – a loose mount can cause intermittent electrical faults and premature battery discharge. Finally, ensure the windscreen wipers clear the glass efficiently, the washer jets deliver a steady spray, and the headlamp aim is within legal limits; any residual issues here may point to incomplete remedial work after the recent failures. A full service history, recent oil and filter changes, and a battery load test will round out the assessment before committing to purchase.