2002 Vauxhall Zafira 2.2L Petrol · FE02 LNW

The vehicle shows a history of persistent corrosion issues and recurring mechanical failures, despite its low annual mileage. In the most recent test in November 2023 at 95,957 miles, the car passed after a failure caused by an excessively binding offside front service brake. However, the record indicates an ongoing trend of corrosion affecting the braking system, specifically regarding brake pipes and hoses which have been flagged across multiple inspection years. The front sub-frame has been noted as corroded but not seriously weakened since 2021, and while it has not yet failed, the presence of rust on structural mounting areas and back plates requires close monitoring. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 95,957 represents a low average of approximately 4,000 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber components and seals rather than mechanical wear. This is evident in 2021 at 87,994 miles, where the vehicle failed due to multiple fractured coil springs and a structural failure of the offside front inner tyre. The recurring mention of damaged screens and deteriorated registration plates suggests the vehicle may have sat stationary for long periods between tests, leading to the gradual decay of external plastics and perished-related components. A buyer should focus heavily on the integrity of the braking system and the sub-frame. The tester consistently identified corroded brake pipes covered in grease and corroded hose ferrules, which can lead to sudden fluid loss if the metal thins further. The minor exhaust leak noted in 2023 and 2021 suggests the exhaust system is reaching the end of its life. While the car currently holds its MOT, the recurring nature of structural rust and the previous failure of suspension components indicates that the vehicle is entering a stage where significant maintenance costs may arise frequently.