2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · FD65 RWL

The most recent MOT recorded on 6 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though the same date carries a prior failed entry showing several serious safety-related defects. The earlier failure listed dangerous tread depth deficiencies on both front tyres, a major excessive-wear condition on the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, a major excessive-wear condition on the nearside front anti-roll bar pin or bush, and a major serious fluid leak from the nearside front shock absorber. The fact that the vehicle subsequently passed indicates these items were rectified before the final test, but the cluster of suspension, bush, and damper-related defects in a single inspection is significant. Looking at the broader pattern, the 2024 test introduced advisory notes for oil misting on both front and rear shock absorbers, which appear to have progressed into an outright fluid leak by late 2025. This indicates a worsening trend within the suspension and damping system rather than a stable maintenance picture, and a prospective buyer should not treat the pass certificate as evidence that all components are in good health. The recorded mileage of 98,110 miles over approximately ten years equates to around 9,800 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and somewhat consistent with light commercial or multi-purpose use. There are no obvious extended standing periods in the MOT history, with tests recorded in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular service. At this odometer reading, mechanical wear on clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel if applicable, and engine internals becomes increasingly relevant even at average mileages, and a compression or leak-down test along with a service history verification would be prudent. Given the documented suspension defects, particular attention should be paid on any test drive to the condition of the front suspension. Listen and feel for clonking or knocking noises from the nearside front over uneven surfaces, excessive road noise transmitted through the structure, and any vagueness or wandering from the steering, all of which could indicate residual wear in the arm ball joint, anti-roll bar bushes, or supporting components. Although the dampers were reportedly replaced following the dangerous leak, oil misting advisories on the offside rear and nearside front in 2024 suggest the remaining units may be approaching the end of their service life, and any bouncing, wallowing, or uneven tyre wear would be cause for concern. Tyre condition should be inspected carefully, confirming not only tread depth but also sidewall integrity, as a commercial vehicle of this age can suffer perishing and impact damage from kerbing. Beyond the suspension, the vehicle is ten years old and warrants age-related inspection regardless of mileage. Brake components, including discs and pads, should be examined for wear lip, corrosion, and binding calipers, particularly as light commercial vehicles frequently suffer from seized caliper slides. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil should be assessed for service interval compliance, as these fluids degrade with calendar age even when mileage is modest. The 12V battery should be load-tested given the typical seven-year service life of modern units, and the underbody, jacking points, and suspension subframes should be checked for surface corrosion, paying special heed to the rear shock absorber mounting areas given the history of oil misting. Finally, verify timing belt or chain service history according to manufacturer schedule, inspect for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox, and ensure the central stop lamp and windscreen washer, both flagged previously, are functioning correctly.