2020 Vauxhall Crossland X Griffin 1.2L Petrol · FD70 LCM

The 2020 Vauxhall Crossland X Griffin’s most recent DVSA MOT test on 2025-11-22 resulted in a clean pass, marking a return to compliance after a previous failure in 2023-11-02 where both the near-side front and rear road wheel fixings were deemed missing and out of service. This pattern indicates a recurring issue with wheel fixation integrity, suggesting either a manufacturing defect, installation error, or progressive degradation of the wheel mounting hardware over time. While the 2024-11-23 MOT also passed without defects, the absence of a subsequent failure in that test raises questions about whether the problem was resolved or if the vehicle was operated without the correct wheel fixings during that period. For a prospective buyer, this history underscores the need for immediate and thorough inspection of the wheel fixings, including the integrity of the wheel nuts, studs, and any associated locking devices, as well as the condition of the wheel bearings and suspension components that may have been compromised by the missing fixings. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 56,643 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,440 miles, which is consistent with its age—six years old—assuming typical driving patterns. However, the presence of two consecutive MOT failures within a year of each other, particularly for wheel fixings, could imply either a higher-than-average incidence of standing or short-term idling, which accelerates corrosion and loosening of wheel components. Alternatively, if the vehicle was driven regularly, the repeated failures may reflect a persistent underlying issue with the wheel mounting system that requires urgent attention to prevent further safety risks, such as wheel detachment during acceleration or braking. The suspension and steering components adjacent to the affected wheels should also be scrutinised for signs of stress or wear, as improper wheel mounting can exacerbate misalignment or excessive play in the suspension geometry. Given the history of wheel fixation failures, the buyer must prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the front and rear wheel assemblies, focusing on the condition of the wheel nuts, studs, and any anti-theft or locking devices. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the wheels, particularly during cornering or acceleration, which could indicate bearing wear or loose wheel fixings. Inspect the wheel rims for signs of damage, such as bending or scratches, which may suggest previous detachment events. Additionally, visually check the suspension for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment caused by the compromised wheel fixings. If the wheel fixings are found to be secure, the next step should be to replace them with new, high-quality components to prevent recurrence. Beyond the wheel fixings, the buyer should also verify the condition of the brake discs and pads on the affected wheels, as prolonged use with loose or missing fixings can lead to uneven braking performance or premature wear. For the Vauxhall Crossland X Griffin’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a broader inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid integrity. Given the vehicle’s moderate mileage, the tyres may still be serviceable, but the sidewall should be checked for signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or corrosion of the terminals. The brake fluid reservoir should be inspected for contamination or degradation, as standing brake systems can absorb moisture over time, reducing effectiveness. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as these components can degrade faster in high-mileage or frequently idled vehicles. Finally, the service history should be reviewed for any records of suspension or wheel component servicing, as the Crossland X’s suspension bushes and coil springs may exhibit signs of wear or stiffness at this stage, warranting a visual and functional assessment during the inspection.